Major Blow for South Africa as Rabada Sidelined for Series Opener
In a significant setback for the touring South African cricket team, their star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has been officially ruled out of the first Test match against India. The pivotal match is scheduled to be played at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The decision came after Rabada sustained a rib injury during a training session, casting a shadow over the start of the series for the Proteas.
Injury Timeline and Medical Assessments
The unfortunate incident occurred during the team's first training session on Tuesday. The injury prompted an immediate series of medical evaluations to determine its severity. According to the team's media manager, "KG sustained the injury during the first training session on Tuesday, then he underwent a scan on Wednesday morning, and then underwent a fitness test this morning and was experiencing discomfort and was ultimately ruled out of the game."
The South African team management had kept the final decision on his participation pending until the last possible moment, making the call on Friday morning just before the match. Rabada is currently undergoing further assessments with the medical team to evaluate his recovery prospects.
Uncertainty Looms for Second Test in Guwahati
The cloud of uncertainty extends beyond the first match. When questioned about Rabada's chances of playing in the second Test in Guwahati, starting on November 22, the team manager provided a cautious update. He confirmed that the premier pacer is "still undergoing further assessments with the medical team," leaving his availability for the crucial second encounter up in the air.
Team Composition Adjustments
To fill the void left by Rabada's absence, the South African side has brought in Corbin Bosch into the playing eleven. This marks what will be Bosch's fourth Test match for his country. He will join the bowling attack alongside Marco Jansen and seam bowling all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, as the team looks to compensate for the massive loss of their bowling spearhead.
