Kagiso Rabada Ruled Out of Australia ODI Series with Ankle Injury

South Africa suffered a major blow ahead of their ODI series against Australia as premier fast bowler Kagiso Rabada was ruled out of the entire three-match series due to ankle inflammation. The news was confirmed just hours before the first ODI at Cazaly's Stadium in Cairns.

Rabada, 30, underwent scans on Monday which revealed the extent of the injury. He will remain in Australia to undergo rehabilitation under the supervision of South Africa's medical team.

In his absence, teenage pace sensation Kwena Maphaka has been added to the squad. The left-arm quick was the standout performer in the recently concluded T20I series, finishing as the highest wicket-taker. His inclusion adds much-needed firepower to South Africa’s depleted pace attack.

The Proteas are already without Marco Jansen, who continues to recover from surgery on his left thumb. As a result, the remaining fast bowling responsibilities now fall to Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi, and Maphaka. Allrounders Corbin Bosch and Wiaan Mulder, both capable seamers, provide additional bowling options.

In the spin department, South Africa have a mix of experience and variety with Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, and Prenelan Subrayen available for selection.

The ODI series marks a key phase in South Africa’s preparations for the 2027 World Cup, with several players looking to cement their places in the squad. Following the opener in Cairns, the series will move to the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay for the second and third ODIs.

Australia, fresh off a 2-1 win in the T20I series, will be aiming to continue their momentum against a South African side battling both form and injuries.