South Africa trusts someone to step up if Rabada can't face Australia in 1st test
The South African cricket team is managing squad depth and injuries ahead of their first test series against Australia. With key bowler Kagiso Rabada uncertain, the team is relying on a culture of collective responsibility and rotating talent.
Why it matters
The team's ability to perform despite the absence of star players highlights the effectiveness of their current squad management and development strategy.
DURBAN, South Africa (AP) — The Proteas would of course love Kagiso Rabada to be slinging thunderbolts at Kingsmead on Friday, the first day of Australia's first test cricket series in South Africa since the " Sandpapergate " scandal in 2018.
Because of a hamstring injury, South Africa's premier fast bowler hasn't played since May. Rabada has been in the nets lately but the Proteas are leaving it as late as possible to green-light him.
They also say they won't push him. Not with eight home tests between now and January and 10 left in this World Test Championship cycle for the defending champion.
And if there's one thing about South Africa's national cricket team, it's the trust in its entire squad to cope with setbacks and excel. Selections from out of the blue have constantly risen to the occasion.
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