Kagiso Rabada’s availability for the 2nd Test is still undecided despite the side bringing in Lungi Ngidi as an injury replacement. (Images via Getty) South Africa remain uncertain about Kagiso Rabada’s availability for the second Test against India, with bowling coach Piet Botha confirming the team will wait another day before making the final call. Rabada, who missed the opening Test in Kolkata due to a rib injury, did not take part in the training session at the Barsapara Stadium on Thursday. Botha said the medical team was still assessing pace ahead of deciding the series, which starts on November 22. “We are monitoring Kagiso Rabada and will take a call in the next 24 hours,” he told reporters, as quoted by PTI.
The Indian cricket team was wearing a new training kit when they arrived in Guwahati
The uncertainty surrounding Rabada follows the team’s decision to bring Lungi Ngidi into the squad as cover. Ngidi, who last played a Test in the 2025 WTC final at Lord’s, was not part of the original touring group. His return comes as South Africa manage a different work-rate, with Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch and Wiaan Mulder leading the charge in the first Test. Guwahati, which is hosting its first ever Test, presents unfamiliar conditions for both teams. Botha said the surface still needed time before a clear assessment could be made. “The wicket (in Guwahati) we’ve been told is a good track. But a lot of the difference is whether you keep the grass or not,” he said, adding that with two days left, the nature of the pitch could still change. Spin is likely to be a factor, especially after Simon Harmer’s crucial role in South Africa’s 30-run victory at the Eden Gardens, which was incidentally their first Test win in India in 15 years. Botha dismissed any concerns about Harmer’s fitness. “No problems with Simon Harmer’s shoulder. If the ball starts turning as early as it did in Kolkata, he will be dangerous with so many left-handers in the line-up,” he said.
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He also hinted that final surface preparation could affect the team’s balance. “We had a look at it this morning. Two days away so it’s hard to predict if they will actually cut more grass or not. That will obviously make a difference,” Botha added. South Africa lead the two-match series 1-0 after defending 123 in Kolkata, a result that handed India its second-lowest run chase in Test history. India are now looking to level the series as the visitors chase a rare series win on Indian soil.
