SA vs AUS: Kagiso Rabada misses opening Durban Test as Anrich Nortje returns

South Africa’s leading fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will miss the first Test against Australia at the Kingsmead in Durban starting on Friday, October 9, with the Proteas opting for a two-spin attack in the series opener.

Captain Temba Bavuma confirmed Absence of Rabada after South Africa have named their playing XI as veteran spinner Simon Harmer joins Keshav Maharaj in the attack.

Rabada has not played a competitive match since the Indian Premier League in May after suffering a right hamstring injury during the winter warm-up. He was in contention for selection after working his way back to fitness and trained with the squad at Kingsmead on Thursday.

However, South Africa have taken a cautious approach to their premiership fast bowler, opting not to rush him back for the opening Test.

“It was not easy,” Bavuma told reporters.

“I think we’ve gone the conservative route to give him a few extra days to get as close to 100% fitness as possible.

“Once he gets the green light, we expect him to be in that starting line-up.

RABAD’S CAUTIOUS RETURN

Rabada’s absence leaves South Africa without one of their most experienced Test bowlers for the series opener. The Proteas will instead rely on a pace attack featuring Marco Jansen and Anrich Nortje, with Nortje returning to first-class cricket after a long injury absence.

Nortje is set to play his first first-class game in almost four years. The paceman express has endured a tough spell with injuries, including back and hip problems, but has now been given the opportunity to return to the Test side.

The decision to leave Rabada is part of South Africa’s cautious approach how they are trying to ensure that the fast bowler is fully fit before they bring him back to competitive cricket.

TWO TURNS FOR KINGSMEAD

Another major selection challenge is South Africa’s decision to play with two specialist spinners. Maharaj will be joined by Harmer, giving Bavuma two experienced options to take advantage of the conditions at Kingsmead.

Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton and David Bedingham lead the batting line-up, followed by Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs. Wiaan Mulder provides an all-round option while Kyle Verreynne takes the gloves.

South Africa will be hoping that their combination of spin and pace will put Australia under pressure in the opening Test. For now, the immediate focus will be on Rabada’s recovery, with Bavuma expected to return as soon as he gets the green light.

South Africa playing eleven: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (C), Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne (WC), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Anrich Nortje

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