South Africa’s pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the ODI series against Australia and is doubtful for the following Test series as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) said Rabada suffered a right hamstring strain and will miss the three-match ODI series, which begins Sept. 24 in Durban.
“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,” CSA said in a statement.
Rabada’s domestic bowling coach, Allan Donald, told South African media that the injury could keep the fast bowler out of action for up to 10 weeks.
The first Test is scheduled to begin Oct. 9 in Durban, with Gqeberha and Cape Town also set to host matches.
Rabada’s absence from the Test series would be a major setback for South Africa. The team defeated Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s last year, with the 31-year-old Rabada taking nine wickets.
Rabada has an average of 21.39 in 11 Tests against Australia, slightly better than his career average of 22.03.
