Kagiso Rabada Likely to Be Available for Australia Tests, Says Shukri Conrad
Kagiso Rabada sustained a right hamstring injury during South Africa’s training in mid-August 2026, ruling him out of the September ODI series against Australia. The quick bowler began his rehabilitation regimen immediately after the accident, with medical professionals monitoring his progress.
South African coach Shukri Conrad has given a favorable evaluation of Kagiso Rabada improvement as the Test series approaches in October. Speaking on September 21, Conrad stated that early indications from the medical team were good, and that a final clearance decision will be made within days.
Kagiso Rabada rehabilitation is going well, adds Conrad.
Conrad emphasized Kagiso Rabada outstanding record versus Australia and his significance to the South African bowling attack. Kagiso Rabada has taken 58 wickets at an average of 21.39 in 11 Tests against Australia, proving his worth in this match, according to the coach. Kagiso Rabada has 340 wickets in 73 Tests total.
A final medical clearance decision was expected by the end of September 2026, after Rabada had finished many weeks of intensive treatment. Conrad claimed that early signals from the medical staff were promising, and that the team would provide information on his availability soon.
Backup bowling options are ready if needed.
Conrad admitted that Kagiso Rabada recuperation rate and physical condition offered him reason to be optimistic, but he stressed that the medical team’s evaluation would be the deciding factor in any final decision.
The South African coach emphasized that, while Rabada presence would be vital, the team had capable backups ready to step in if necessary. Gerald Coetzee, Corbin Bosch, and youngster Kwena Maphaka were expected to shoulder more responsibility in the fast bowling department if necessary.
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South Africa ranked second in the WTC 2025-27 rankings, after Australia, which led the table. The three-Test series against Australia was planned to begin on October 9 in Durban, followed by Gqeberha on October 18 and Cape Town on October 27.
