Very optimistic Kagiso Rabada will play in Test series against Australia: Shukri Conrad

South Africa's head coach Shukri Conrad expressed high confidence on Monday that fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will play in the upcoming three-match ICC World Test Championship series against Australia, which begins on October 9. Rabada, the cornerstone of South Africa's pace attack, is currently recovering from a right hamstring injury sustained during a training session in mid-August.

Conrad expressed surprise if Rabada were to miss the Test series, praising the bowler's exceptional record against Australia and his rapid recovery. Rabada boasts a 58-wicket haul in 11 Tests against Australia at an average of 21.39, including a memorable nine-wicket match haul in the 2025 World Test Championship Final. Conrad noted that while there is still work to be done in Rabada's rehabilitation, he is optimistic about the bowler's return.

The three-match series holds significant importance in the WTC 2025-27 cycle, with Australia currently leading the table and South Africa in second place. Despite the challenge, Conrad believes South Africa has the necessary depth to succeed in Rabada's absence, emphasizing the team's ability to adapt and perform under pressure.