South Africa Suffers Setback as Kagiso Rabada Misses Australia ODIs
The much-anticipated clash of South Africa vs Australia has been dealt an early blow, with Kagiso Rabada ruled out of the Australia ODI series due to ankle inflammation. The pace spearhead underwent scans on Monday, which confirmed the extent of the injury. As a result, he will miss all three matches of the ODI series.
Rabada Injury Update: A Major Setback for South Africa
The news of Kagiso Rabada ruled out of Australia ODI series comes as a huge setback for the Proteas. At 30 years old, Rabada remains one of the most reliable fast bowlers in world cricket. His absence creates a significant void in South Africa’s attack. He will, however, continue his rehabilitation in Australia under the supervision of the team’s medical staff.
To fill the gap, Kwena Maphaka has been drafted into the squad. Maphaka impressed in the preceding T20I series, where he finished as the leading wicket-taker. His inclusion provides South Africa with much-needed firepower against a strong Australian batting lineup.
South Africa Bowling Options Without Rabada
With Kagiso Rabada ruled out of the Australia ODI series, the South African bowling unit will rely heavily on the remaining pacers. Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi, and the young Maphaka form the core of the pace attack. Additionally, seam-bowling allrounders Corbin Bosch and Wiaan Mulder bring balance to the squad.
Spin responsibilities will fall on Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, and Prenelan Subrayen, giving the Proteas variety in conditions that could favor slower bowlers. Despite these options, the absence of Rabada and Marco Jansen, who is recovering from thumb surgery, will test South Africa’s depth.
Series Winners 🏆
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Australia seal it 2-1 against South Africa! 🇦🇺
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ODI Series Schedule: South Africa vs Australia
The first ODI between South Africa and Australia is being staged at Cazaly’s Stadium in Cairns. Following the opener, both teams will head to Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena for the remaining two matches. Australia enters the ODI series on a high after winning the T20I series 2-1.
With Kagiso Rabada ruled out of Australia ODI series, South Africa faces a stern challenge in overcoming the loss of their pace leader. However, the inclusion of rising star Kwena Maphaka adds excitement and promise for the Proteas as they look to bounce back against a confident Australian side.
