South Africa face a late decision over Kagiso Rabada's availability for the first Test against Australia, with the pace spearhead still working his way back from a hamstring injury. Rabada has not played competitive cricket since turning out for Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League in May. The three-Test series begins on Friday at Kingsmead in Durban, leaving the Proteas with limited time to assess his readiness.

Rabada suffered the injury during training in August and was subsequently ruled out of South Africa's ODI series against Australia. Despite the setback, he was included in the Proteas' preliminary squad for the Test opener as the team kept open the possibility of his return. The 31-year-old remains an important part of South Africa's bowling plans, particularly against an Australian side they defeated in the 2025 World Test Championship final.

The fast bowler recently featured in a two-day intra-squad match in Durban, where he reportedly bowled well. However, South Africa's coaching staff have stressed that he is not yet fully fit and that the final decision on his selection will be delayed as long as possible. Rabada also trained with the squad on Wednesday as the team continued to monitor his recovery ahead of the series opener.

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Rabada's absence would be a significant concern for South Africa given his record against Australia. He has taken 58 wickets in 11 Tests against them at an average of 21.39, including nine wickets in the 2025 WTC final at Lord's. His experience and ability to produce breakthroughs could be particularly valuable in a series carrying important World Test Championship points.

South Africa, however, have several alternatives if the selectors decide not to risk Rabada. Anrich Nortje is in line for a Test return after a lengthy absence, while Corbin Bosch, Gerald Coetzee, Marco Jansen and Dane Paterson provide further pace options. The squad also includes experienced spinners such as Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, giving the hosts flexibility when finalising their attack.

The three-Test series will begin in Durban before moving to Gqeberha and Cape Town later this month. South Africa currently sit second behind Australia in the 2025-27 World Test Championship standings, making the contest important for both teams. With the first Test only hours away, Rabada's fitness is expected to remain one of the major selection decisions for the hosts.

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