Proteas want to be ‘smart’ about Kagiso Rabada’s return ahead of Australia Tests

Coach Shukri Conrad has stated that he will be patient in determining the optimal time for fast bowler Kagiso Rabada to return from his hamstring injury before the first Test against Australia in South Africa. Conrad, who recently included Rabada in an 18-man preliminary squad, emphasized his willingness to give Rabada as much time as possible to regain full fitness.

He acknowledged that there are individuals with advanced knowledge in science and data who will be consulted in making this decision. Conrad stressed that the team does not want to rush Rabada, as they aim to be smart about his return, considering his well-being and ability to match the intensity required in a Test match. The current fast-bowling situation, with four pacers dealing with hamstring injuries, has been described as a crisis by Conrad, who expressed his commitment to making the right decisions and preventing a recurrence of such issues in the future.