Proteas suffer major setback with star pacer ruled out ahead of IND vs SA 2nd Test

South Africa have been dealt a major blow ahead of the second Test against India, with pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada officially ruled out of the contest in Guwahati. The match, which begins on November 22 at the Barsapara Stadium, marks the venue’s debut in the Test arena and comes with the series intriguingly poised after the Proteas’ strong win in Kolkata.

Rabada had already missed the opening Test due to a rib injury sustained during a training session. While South Africa managed to clinch victory without him, his absence remains significant given his experience and strike power in challenging conditions. He also skipped South Africa’s practice session on Thursday, raising early concerns around his fitness.

Captain Temba Bavuma put an end to any speculation during the pre-match press conference, confirming that Rabada would play no further role in the ongoing tour. “Kagiso has been ruled out of the second Test,” Bavuma said, citing the medical team’s decision to avoid any unnecessary risk with the fast bowler’s recovery. “He will continue the initial phase of his rehabilitation before returning home.”

Bavuma weighs spin-friendly pitch tactics as Rabada heads home injured

Cricket South Africa issued a statement explaining that Rabada will undergo a four-week recovery program while being monitored by the Proteas medical staff. He will travel back to South Africa after the conclusion of the second Test.

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With the teams heading to a completely new Test venue, Bavuma also shared insights about the surface in Guwahati. He noted that it carries typical subcontinental characteristics, where batting conditions should be at their best in the early stages before spinners begin to dominate. “This wicket looks a lot fresher and will be more consistent in terms of variability compared to Kolkata,” he said. “We’ll take another look in the morning before finalizing his replacement.”

As South Africa prepare to adjust their bowling combination once again, India will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing opening Test. The untested nature of the Barsapara pitch and the stakes of the series add further intrigue to what promises to be a compelling and historic contest.