Rabada's Test Return Uncertain as South Africa Prepares for Australia

Durban — South Africa's batting coach Ashwell Prince indicated on Tuesday that Kagiso Rabada could feature in the first Test against Australia, though no firm decision has been made on the fast bowler's participation. The match is scheduled to commence Friday in Durban, leaving the coaching staff minimal time to assess Rabada's readiness. Prince said the squad would defer the selection decision until the eleventh hour, suggesting ongoing concerns about the bowler's physical condition. Rabada, a key figure in South Africa's pace attack, has been a focus of speculation heading into the series against the visiting Australians. The timing of the announcement indicates the team is taking a cautious approach to managing the player's fitness ahead of what is expected to be a demanding Test encounter.