Rabada cleared for Australia Test return, dismisses Smith ill will

Kagiso Rabada has been passed fit following a hamstring tear and is set to make his first appearance since May when South Africa face Australia at St George’s Park. Ahead of the second Test, the fast bowler said he held no resentment towards Steve Smith over their 2018 confrontation.

The hosts need to recover after losing by 214 runs in Durban. South Africa have confirmed that Tristan Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne will be left out, with Matthew Breetzke and Marques Ackerman expected to replace them. The final line-up remains undecided, while forecast rain has both sides preparing for a shortened match.

Rabada’s return takes him back to the ground where a collision with Smith during a wicket celebration initially brought a two-Test ban in 2018. That punishment was reduced to a fine on appeal. Smith and Australia were unhappy that the batter could not speak at the hearing.

Rabada has since faced Australia 23 times across the formats without further trouble. He said on-field emotion did not amount to hatred away from cricket, and players needed to balance expressing themselves with observing the rules.

Pat Cummins said Rabada needed little outside provocation to motivate himself for a contest. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said the returning bowler gave the attack added confidence and was eager to play.

Rabada claimed 11 wickets in the 2018 match at the venue and finished as player of the series. His record against Australia stands at 58 wickets at an average of 21.39.