Will Kagiso Rabada Play IND vs SA 2nd Test in Guwahati?

The Indian Cricket Team and the South African Cricket Team are all set to lock horns with each other in the second Test. The match will be played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati from Saturday (November 22). South Africa won the 1st Test in Kolkata by 30 runs and would be eyeing to script history. They had a sensational outing with the bat and ball in the first match and recorded their first-ever win in India after 15 long years.

With history awaiting, South Africa are mulling over the fitness of their premier pacer Kagiso Rabada. Rabada, who is also one of the best bowlers in the world, missed the first match of the series due to a rib injury and there have been a lot of speculations over his availability for the second Test of the series. Cricket South Africa also included Lungi Ngidi in the squad as a cover for him. But they would be hoping that Kagiso Rabada plays as he can surely be the difference in the second match in Guwahati.

South Africa Bowling Coach Provides Kagiso Rabada Injury Update

South Africa bowling coach Piet Botha, however, provided a huge update on Kagiso Rabada ahead of the second match. He said that they are monitoring the pacer and will take a call ahead of the match. Speaking to reporters, he said:

“We are monitoring Kagiso Rabada and we will take a call in the next 24 hours. The wicket (in Guwahati) we are told is a good batting track. But a lot of difference happens in terms of whether you keep the grass or not. With two days left we will have to wait to see whether it starts turning earlier,” Botha told reporters on the pacer's participation in the second Test.

South Africa Eye History in Guwahati

Kagiso Rabada has been one of the best Test bowlers in the world. He played a huge role in South Africa's series against Pakistan. If he is deemed fit to play the second Test against India, he would be keen to take his team to a series win.

South Africa haven’t won a series in India in the last 25 years. With India already under pressure, they would be he favourites to win the match. The match will also be part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 and having won the first match, the Proteas moved up the table.

On the other hand, India has been jolted by the massive blow. Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the match and in his absence, Rishabh Pant will lead the team in Guwahati. He will become the 38th captain to lead India in the longest format of the game and would be eager to take his team to win in his first game as captain.