South Africa will miss fast bowler Kagiso Rabada in the second Test against India after he failed to recover from a rib stress injury. He also sat out the first Test, which South Africa won by 30 runs in Kolkata. He will not be ready for the match starting Saturday in Guwahati.
South Africa added seamer Lungi Ngidi earlier in the week to cover Rabada. Captain Temba Bavuma said the final XI will be decided after inspecting the pitch. He noted that the surface appears fresher and carries more grass than Kolkata. He expects good batting conditions early before spin becomes key later.
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Bavuma stressed the importance of the first innings and the advantage of batting on day one. He said winning the toss could shape the match. He also rejected any idea of playing for a draw to secure the series. He said the team aims to attack and maintain control from the start.
Rabada’s absence will continue beyond the Test series. He will miss three ODIs and five T20 matches against India due to a four-week rehabilitation plan. His injury forces South Africa to adjust their plans across formats.
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India confirmed on Friday that captain Shubman Gill will also miss the second Test. His absence adds another twist to a series already hit by injuries on both sides.