Kagiso Rabada Injury Update: Shukri Conrad Explains Proteas’ Next Move

• Kagiso Rabada’s fitness has become a major talking point as the Proteas prepare for a crucial Test assignment against Australia
• Shukri Conrad has offered some insight into the situation, but there is still plenty to watch before the Test squad is finalised
• The Proteas coach has also addressed another fast bowler’s situation as South Africa looks ahead to a busy period of international cricket

Proteas coach Shukri Conrad is hoping Kagiso Rabada can recover in time for South Africa’s upcoming Test series against Australia, with the fast bowler’s fitness still being monitored closely.

Rabada was not included in the Proteas’ ODI squad for the series beginning on 24 September after failing to fully recover from a hamstring injury. The Test series follows next month, leaving South Africa with an important fitness call to make.

Speaking to SABC Sport on 8 September 2026, Conrad said Rabada’s rehabilitation was progressing positively, but the final decision would depend on the medical information available when the Test squad is selected.

“Rabada has not changed from the last time. He’s out of the ODIs, and we are constantly monitoring his rehabilitation,” Conrad said.

“When we do sit down to select the Test squad, I think then we’ll know and make an informed decision. He’s tracking nicely, gathering all the reports from the physios that he’s been working with.”

Proteas waiting on medical reports

Conrad stressed Rabada’s importance to the Test side and remains hopeful he will be available.

“We are really happy with how it’s going and it goes without saying he’s a massive player,” he added. “Fingers crossed it all goes well and he’ll be taking the field for us.”

The coach also provided an update on Nandre Burger, who has undergone surgery for a recurring lower-back injury.

Nandre Burger remains on radar

Although Burger is not contracted, Conrad said South Africa would continue tracking his recovery as they build towards next year’s World Cup.

“We’ll see how Nandre tracks and hopefully he gets through that and he might be in contention again as we build towards next year,” he said.

The immediate focus, however, remains Rabada and whether his rehabilitation progresses sufficiently for the Australia Tests.

Kagiso Rabada’s family moment wins fans over

Briefly News previously reported that Kagiso Rabada gave fans a rare glimpse into his family life when he shared a playful birthday photo with his parents.

The Proteas fast bowler, who turned 31, was pictured with cake smeared across his face as supporters celebrated the milestone and praised the cricket star for the touching family moment.

Source: Briefly News