Kagiso Rabada in Line for Return in SA vs AUS 2nd 2026 Test: Report
Kagiso Rabada is nearing a return for South Africa's crucial second Test against Australia in Gqeberha, commencing October 18, 2026, after recovering from a hamstring injury. The Proteas aim to bounce back in the World Test Championship series after Australia's dominant win in the first Test.
In a significant boost for the Proteas, star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is reportedly nearing a return for the second Test of the ICC World Test Championship series against Australia, set to commence on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at St George's Park in Gqeberha. Rabada missed the first Test in Durban as a precautionary measure, but his increasing intensity in training signals his readiness to rejoin the South African attack. The series is part of the 2025-2027 World Test Championship cycle. AUS vs SA 1st Test 2026: Josh Hazlewood's Six-Wicket Haul Helps Australia Beat South Africa by 214 Runs.
Rabada's Road to Recovery
The 31-year-old Rabada (born May 25, 1995) was ruled out of the opening Test at Kingsmead, Durban, which concluded on October 13, 2026, due to a hamstring injury sustained earlier in the year. As reported by cricinfo, the decision to rest him was described as a 'conservative route' by Proteas captain Temba Bavuma, aimed at ensuring his full recovery and long-term fitness. Despite bowling well in a recent intra-squad match, the team management opted against rushing their premier fast bowler back. In his absence, Anrich Nortje made his return to Test cricket, playing alongside Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder as the frontline pacers, supported by spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer.
Australia, who were defeated by South Africa in the 2025 World Test Championship final, secured a dominant victory in the first Test in Durban. Their comprehensive performance has set a challenging tone for the remainder of the three-match series, which is a crucial part of the 2025-2027 World Test Championship cycle.
Second Test Details: South Africa vs Australia
The focus now shifts to Gqeberha, where South Africa will aim to bounce back. The second Test, a vital encounter for both teams in the World Test Championship standings, is scheduled as follows:
| Match | Date | Venue | Start Time (Local) | Timezone | Series Stage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Test | Oct 18-22, 2026 | St George's Park, Gqeberha | 10:00 AM SAST | Africa/Johannesburg | League Match |
Should Rabada receive the medical 'green light,' Captain Temba Bavuma has affirmed he expects the fiery pacer to be 'within that starting lineup.' His inclusion would significantly bolster the Proteas' bowling arsenal, adding pace, aggression, and wicket-taking ability against a strong Australian batting order. Gautam Gambhir Birthday Special: Celebrating World Cup Hero As Current India Head Coach Turns 45.
The three-match Test series will conclude with the third and final Test at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town, scheduled from October 27-31, 2026.
Rabada's potential return for the Gqeberha Test is a timely development for the Proteas as they seek to level the series against a formidable Australian side. His presence will undoubtedly inject renewed energy and firepower into the home team's quest for World Test Championship points.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 14, 2026 10:40 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).