South Africa’s bowling coach, Piet Botha, has kept the door open for Kagiso Rabada’s potential return in the second Test against India, scheduled to begin on Saturday. Rabada, widely regarded as one of the premier fast bowlers in world cricket and the central figure in South Africa’s pace attack, skipped Thursday’s training session.
His absence stems from a rib injury he sustained during a practice session ahead of the first Test in Kolkata, which forced him out of that match.
Botha confirmed that the team management is carefully observing Rabada’s progress and will make a definitive decision within the next day. “We are monitoring Kagiso Rabada and we will take a call in the next 24 hours,” he told reporters, leaving room for optimism but emphasizing caution.
Guwahati Pitch Presents Unknown Conditions for Both Teams
The second Test marks a historic moment for Guwahati as it hosts a Test match for the first time. With no past data to refer to, the pitch at the Barsapara Stadium is unfamiliar territory for both sides. Early feedback suggests the surface might favour batting, but Botha highlighted that key variables—especially the presence or absence of grass—could significantly influence how the track behaves.
He explained that with two days left before the match, the conditions could still undergo meaningful changes. “The wicket is said to be a good batting track. But a lot changes depending on whether you keep grass or not. With two days left, we will have to wait to see whether it starts turning earlier,” Botha noted. The uncertainty adds a strategic layer to the build-up, especially as teams weigh their bowling combinations and anticipate how the pitch might evolve over five days.
Harmer Expected to Play Crucial Role If Surface Assists Spin
While Rabada’s status remains uncertain, Botha expressed complete confidence in off-spinner Simon Harmer, one of the standout performers during South Africa’s memorable victory in the opening Test at Eden Gardens. Addressing concerns over Harmer’s shoulder, Botha categorically dismissed any fitness issues.
He stressed that Harmer could become a major threat once again—particularly against India’s left-hand heavy batting lineup—if the ball begins turning early, similar to what was seen in Kolkata. “No problems with Simon Harmer’s shoulder. If the ball turns as early as it did in Kolkata, he will be dangerous with so many left-handers,” he said.
Botha added that the team inspected the pitch on Thursday morning, but with uncertainty over how much grass will eventually be shaved off, predicting spin behaviour remains challenging for now.
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