Kagiso Rabada injury news: Lungi Ngidi Replaced
Rabada’s Injury Ends His Participation in India Test Series
South Africa have been dealt a major blow ahead of the second Test against India as star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has officially been ruled out due to a rib injury. Rabada was initially missing from the playing XI in the opening Test at Eden Gardens, and a fresh assessment has now confirmed that he will not recover in time for the remainder of the tour. According to Cricbuzz, the decision was made after medical examinations showed he needed more time to heal, forcing the Proteas management to look for immediate reinforcement. So let’s know about Kagiso Rabada injury news.
Rabada has been the spearhead of South Africa’s pace attack across formats, and his absence is a significant loss, especially in subcontinental conditions where his pace and control over reverse swing have often been crucial. The injury has raised questions over his workload management heading into a busy upcoming cricket calendar.
Lungi Ngidi Returns to South Africa’s Test Setup
To fill the gap, South Africa have recalled fast bowler Lungi Ngidi ahead of the series-deciding Test in Guwahati. Ngidi last represented the Proteas in the Test arena during the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2025 at Lord’s. The 28-year-old enjoyed an impactful outing in that match, where he picked up three vital wickets in the second innings against the defending champions.
Ngidi made his Test debut back in January 2018 and has since played 20 matches in the longest format. Despite injuries and selection competition limiting his appearances, he has maintained an impressive record and remains one of South Africa’s most talented seamers. His ability to generate bounce, hit hard lengths, and exploit seam-friendly conditions makes him a valuable inclusion for South Africa as they seek to close out the series.
Proteas Go 1-0 Ahead Despite Rabada Absence
Even without Rabada, South Africa performed admirably in the opening Test at Eden Gardens. They clinched a 30-run victory in a low-scoring thriller that highlighted the team’s depth and adaptability. Off-spinner Simon Harmer emerged as the hero for the Proteas, claiming two four-wicket hauls in the match, including a decisive 4-21 on Day 3 that dismantled India for just 93 runs while chasing 124.
The result not only showcased South Africa’s bowling strength but also exposed issues in India’s batting approach and their struggles on testing pitches. With the series now balanced on a knife’s edge, Rabada’s absence shifts added responsibility onto Ngidi and the rest of the bowling group.
Series Decider Set for Guwahati
South Africa now head into the second and final Test of the series with a 1-0 lead. The match is scheduled to be played from November 22 to 26 in Guwahati. Ngidi is expected to partner the experienced pace unit and shoulder the challenge in Rabada’s absence as South Africa look to clinch a historic series win on Indian soil.
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