South Africa’s Proteas have suffered a significant setback ahead of their three-match ODI series against Australia in Cairns. Star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is ruled out due to ankle inflammation.
The paceman underwent scans that confirmed the severity of the injury, forcing him to miss the entire series. Rabada will remain in Australia to focus on his rehabilitation, leaving a notable gap in the Proteas bowling attack.
Kwena Maphaka Joins Squad
In response, teenage fast bowler Kwena Maphaka has been added to the ODI squad. Maphaka impressed in the recent T20I series against Australia, finishing as the leading wicket-taker across both teams. However, no additional replacement will be flown in for the injured Rabada.
Despite his inclusion, Maphaka did not feature in South Africa’s playing XI for the opening ODI. Dewald Brevis and off-spinner Prenelan Subrayen earned their ODI debuts.
Match Toss Sets the Tone
At the toss, Australian captain Mitchell Marsh opted to bowl first. He cited dry pitch conditions and the influence of spin in the previous T20I series. “We’ll bowl first. The wicket looks dry and spin did play a part in the last T20I. No real expectations, just execute and enjoy playing and winning for Australia. Marnus and Carey are back in the XI,” Marsh stated.
Proteas captain Temba Bavuma admitted he had preferred to bowl first as well but emphasised the need for his team to adapt. “Yeah, we would have bowled first as well, that’s what the stats say, but we’ll need to bat well. We’re excited to see Brevis and Subrayen in action today. We want the guys to enjoy playing and adjust according to the conditions,” Bavuma explained.
Teams for the First ODI
Australia: Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (capt), Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Aaron Hardie, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood.
South Africa: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma (capt), Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Prenelan Subrayen, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi.
The absence of Rabada presents a testing challenge for the Proteas. They look to adapt their attack and navigate a strong Australian batting lineup in the opening ODI. With fresh faces in the side, all eyes will be on the debutants to make a mark in this crucial series.
Related article: Proteas Out to Prove a Point in High-Stakes ODI Clash with Australia
