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.

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“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 Proteas radar

The discussion also turned to Nandre Burger, who is recovering from surgery on a recurring lower-back injury and will miss the Australia series.

Although Burger is not currently a contracted Proteas player, Conrad confirmed that the national setup continues to monitor his progress. The coach also suggested that a successful recovery could put the Western Province quick back in the frame ahead of next year’s World Cup.

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“I’m sure he’ll obviously work with the guys at Western Province. So, yeah, 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,” Conrad said.

For now, Burger’s recovery remains a longer-term consideration, while Rabada’s rehabilitation is the more immediate concern as South Africa prepares for the Australia Test series.

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