Rabada ruled out as South Africa name playing XI for first Australia Test
Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the first Test against Australia in Durban, with South Africa opting for caution over their spearhead’s fitness. The news that Rabada ruled out South Africa Australia Test opener overshadowed the naming of the hosts’ playing XI for the first of the three-match series.
Captain Temba Bavuma said the decision was a deliberate call to give the fast bowler more time. “We did go the conservative route and give him a couple of extra days to get as close as he can be to 100% fitness,” Bavuma said. “As soon as he gets the green light, we expect him to be within that starting line-up.”
Rabada bowled in an intra-squad practice match and trained at Kingsmead on Thursday, but the team management decided against rushing him back for the series opener, which begins on Friday, October 9.
Rabada ruled out South Africa Australia Test: the replacement attack
With Rabada sidelined, Anrich Nortje returns to the Test side for the first time since the West Indies series in 2023. He will lead an attack featuring Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, a combination that gives South Africa pace and two spin options on a Durban surface.
The full XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (captain), Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer and Anrich Nortje.
A heavyweight WTC clash
This is the first Test between the sides since the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in 2025, which South Africa won to lift the mace. Australia sit top of the current WTC standings with South Africa second, so the three-match series carries real weight in the 2025-27 cycle.
The series runs October 9 to 13 in Durban, October 18 to 22 in Gqeberha and October 27 to 31 in Cape Town. For South Africa, the immediate task is to cover for Rabada’s absence; for Australia, it is a chance to strike against the champions while their best bowler watches from the sidelines.
FAQ
Why was Kagiso Rabada ruled out?
South Africa took a conservative call on his fitness. He is still building towards a full return, and the team preferred to give him extra days rather than risk him in the Durban opener.
Who replaces Rabada in the playing XI?
Anrich Nortje returns to the Test side for the first time since 2023, joining Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer in the attack.
When is the first Test?
October 9 to 13 in Durban, followed by Tests in Gqeberha (October 18 to 22) and Cape Town (October 27 to 31).
What are the WTC standings?
Australia are top of the World Test Championship 2025-27 standings with South Africa second. This is their first meeting since South Africa won the 2025 final at Lord’s.
