Rabada ruled out of Durban Test as Nortje returns to South Africa side

Kagiso Rabada will miss the first Test against Australia at Kingsmead in Durban, beginning on Friday, October 9, South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma confirmed after the Proteas announced their playing XI. The selection sees Anrich Nortje recalled to the Test side and a two-man spin attack included for the series opener.

Rabada has been absent from competitive cricket since the Indian Premier League in May after sustaining a right hamstring injury during winter training. He had been in contention after working his way back to fitness and trained with the squad at Kingsmead on Thursday. South Africa opted not to rush their lead fast bowler back for the opening Test, taking a cautious approach to his return.

“It was not an easy one,” Bavuma told reporters. “I think we did go the conservative route to give him a couple of extra days to get as close as he can be to 100 per cent fitness. “As soon as he gets the green light, we expect him to be within that starting lineup.”

The spin department will consist of Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, with Harmer joining Maharaj as the two specialist spinners selected for Kingsmead. The dual-spinner choice provides Bavuma two experienced options to exploit the conditions at the venue.

South Africa’s pace attack for the match features Marco Jansen alongside Anrich Nortje, who is scheduled to play his first first-class game in almost four years after an extended injury absence. Nortje’s recent setbacks included back and hip problems, and his selection marks a notable return to the Test XI.

The batting order begins with Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton and David Bedingham at the top, followed by Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs. Wiaan Mulder is included as the all-round option and Kyle Verreynne will keep wickets.

Rabada’s absence leaves South Africa without one of their most experienced Test bowlers for the opening contest of the series, with the immediate focus on his rehabilitation. South Africa's Playing XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (C), Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne (WK), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Anrich Nortje.