Allan Donald: Kagiso Rabada injury big blow for Proteas, Kwena Maphaka not ready for Test cricket
Lions bowling coach Allan Donald warns that losing Kagiso Rabada would be a massive blow against Australia, while advising against rushing 20-year-old Kwena Maphaka into the cauldron that is a series against the old foe.
Allan Donald, the Lions bowling coach, has expressed concern over the injury suffered by Kagiso Rabada, a key member of the Proteas bowling attack. Donald believes that Rabada's absence will be a significant setback for the team, especially in the upcoming Test series against Australia. Rabada's speed and skill have earned him a reputation of being a formidable opponent for any team, including the Australian squad.
However, the injury has put his availability for the ODI series, which commences on September 24, in doubt. With the first Test starting on October 9 in Durban, Rabada has a tight schedule to recover and regain fitness. Cricket South Africa (CSA) estimates a recovery period of four to five weeks, leaving little time for Rabada to regain his form.
The Proteas have looked to Kwena Maphaka, a rising fast-bowling talent, as a potential replacement. However, Donald is not convinced that Maphaka is ready to compete at the Test level, given his limited experience with white-ball cricket. The coach emphasizes the need for Maphaka to gain more exposure and build his stamina before facing the challenge posed by international teams like Australia, Bangladesh, and England.
Donald believes that the transition from shorter formats to Test cricket is a significant leap and requires substantial preparation and practice.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
