Big blow for South Africa! Kagiso Rabada is likely to miss Australia’s Test series with a hamstring injury

Kagiso Rabada likely to miss Australia Tests (Image: Agency) South Africa are likely to suffer a major blow ahead of their three-match Test series against Australia, with opening fast bowler Kagiso Rabada ruled out after suffering a severe Grade 3 tear in his right hamstring.The injury, which occurred during Rabad’s winter conditioning program, is expected to sideline him for up to 10 weeks and rule him out of the highly-anticipated series that begins in Durban on October 9.

Donald confirms Rabada’s absence

Former South African fast bowler and current Lions bowling coach Allan Donald confirmed that Rabada will miss the entire series, ending hopes of him being available for the domestic season.“He will also take part in all the Australian Tests,” Donald told South African media channel News24 on Sunday.South Africa are scheduled to play Australia in three Tests, the second in Gqeberha from October 18 and the final Test in Cape Town from October 27. The series will be preceded by a three-match ODI series starting in Durban on September 24.

Proteas face pace-bowling concerns

Rabada’s absence leaves a distinct void in the South African bowling attack. Gerald Coetzee, Corbin Bosch and youngster Kwena Maphaka are likely to shoulder more responsibility in his absence. South Africa are also monitoring the condition of Nandre Burger, who is recovering from a stress fracture in his back. However, there is still a possibility that the left-arm paceman could recover in time to feature in the Test series.Meanwhile, Rabada took 340 wickets in 73 Tests and played a key role in South Africa’s victory over Australia in the final of the 2025 World Test Championship at Lord’s, finishing with figures of 9-110. He also boasts an impressive record against Australia, taking 58 wickets in 11 Tests at an average of 21.39.