Rabada returns but South Africa faces bigger issues

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 16:32 · Archive

Kagiso Rabada is set to return from a hamstring tear for South Africa's second Test against Australia.

Kagiso Rabada is poised to return for the second Test against Australia after recovering from a hamstring tear. The fast bowler spent time bowling on the Kingsmead Stadium outfield this week and will play his first competitive game since May. Captain Temba Bavuma said Rabada 'looks good' and is 'as bubbly as ever within the changing room', adding his non-selection was precautionary.

South Africa suffered their biggest home defeat in six years in the first Test, losing by 224 runs in Durban. Bavuma admitted the side had been 'completely dominated' and acknowledged that batting and tactics needed reviewing. Anrich Nortje was the only bowler to trouble Australia as the pitch flattened, though he played his first long-form match since March 2023 and bowled 40 overs. The twin-spin approach with Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer did not work, the pair taking four wickets for the match whilst conceding 320 runs.

Rabada was South Africa's main weapon in the 2018 series against Australia, taking 23 wickets at an average of 19.26 as the Proteas won 3-1. How South Africa manage their bowling line-up on Rabada's return will be of interest, with fellow quick Wiaan Mulder predicting Nortje would not back up in Gqeberha.

How it is being reported

• Rabada ready but South Africa must fix bigger problemsKagiso Rabada is set to return from a hamstring tear to lead South Africa's bowling attack in the second Test, but the Proteas know they have other issues.Perth Now · 13 Oct, 16:18
• Rabada ready but South Africa must fix bigger problemsKagiso Rabada is set to return from a hamstring tear to lead South Africa's bowling attack in the second Test, but the Proteas know they have other issues.The West Australian · 13 Oct, 16:18

In this story: Kagiso Rabada · South Africa · Australia · Temba Bavuma · Anrich Nortje · Keshav Maharaj · Simon Harmer · Durban

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