South Africa’s Rabada ruled out of Australia ODIs and faces test series doubt

Kagiso Rabada will miss South Africa’s three-match ODI series against Australia after suffering a right hamstring strain, while his participation in the test series remains uncertain.

Cricket South Africa said Rabada would miss the ODIs, which begin on Sept. 24 in Durban. His availability for the tests will depend on his rehabilitation, with selectors set to decide closer to the series.

South African domestic bowling coach Allan Donald told local media that the injury could keep Rabada out for up to 10 weeks. The first test starts on Oct. 9 in Durban, followed by matches in Gqeberha and Cape Town.

A prolonged absence would be a major setback for South Africa. Rabada took nine wickets when the team beat Australia in last year’s World Test Championship final at Lord’s. He has also averaged 21.39 in 11 tests against Australia, slightly better than his career average of 22.03.

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His availability for the three-match test series against Australia will depend on how he progresses through his rehabilitation, with a decision on his selection to be made closer to the series.