AUS vs SA 2025 ODIs : South Africa’s preparations for the high-profile ODI series against Australia have taken a major hit with pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada being ruled out due to a painful right-ankle inflammation. The 30-year-old speedster, regarded as the backbone of South Africa’s fast-bowling attack, complained of discomfort and underwent scans — which revealed he was not fit to take part in the 3-match series.
Rabada’s absence is a massive setback for the Proteas. His pace, bounce and experience — especially in Australian conditions — often give South Africa an edge up front and at the death. With a busy cricket calendar ahead and the 2025 Champions Trophy in sight, CSA has chosen not to risk him, and instead put him on a rehabilitation program under the medical team in Australia.
To plug the gaping hole left by Rabada, South Africa have called up exciting young left-arm pacer Kwena Maphaka. At just 18, Maphaka has already caught the eye of the cricketing world after finishing as the leading wicket-taker during the recently-concluded T20I series on the tour. The inclusion of the youngster signals CSA’s trust in youth and the future, particularly in the pace department.
With seasoned campaigners like Anrich Nortje and Marco Jansen already rested, Rabada’s ouster means additional responsibility will fall on Lungi Ngidi and Nandre Burger, while Maphaka could get his first taste of ODI cricket. The squad is packed with fresh faces such as Dewald Brevis, Prenalen Subrayen, and Tony de Zorzi, showcasing South Africa’s bold transition phase.
The opening ODI started with Australia opting to bowl first after winning the toss. South Africa handed ODI caps to Brevis and Subrayen, backing young blood to step up. After losing the T20Is 2-1, Temba Bavuma’s side is hungry to hit back in the longer white-ball format — but doing so without their premier fast bowler will test their bench strength and resilience.
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