“Fingers Crossed”: Conrad Drops Crucial Fitness Updates On Rabada, Nortje, And Coetzee
South Africa are hopeful that Kagiso Rabada will be fit for the upcoming Test series, with head coach Shukri Conrad encouraged by the fast bowler’s rehabilitation progress.
Rabada has been ruled out of the current ODI commitments as he continues his recovery, but South Africa are closely monitoring his progress.
“I don’t think a lot’s changed from the last time. He is out of the ODIs,” Conrad said.
“We’re constantly monitoring his rehabilitation, and I think only when we sit down to select a Test squad will we know and make an informed decision, but he’s tracking nicely.”
The Proteas will not rush Rabada back into action, with his availability ultimately dependent on his rehabilitation programme and the medical reports received by the team.
“Gathering the reports from all the physios he’s been working with, we’re really happy with how he’s going, and it goes without saying he’s a massive player,” Conrad added.
“You only need to look at his record. So fingers crossed that all goes well and he’ll be taking the field for us.”
Rabada remains a key figure in South Africa’s Test plans, with his experience, leadership and record making his availability particularly important as the team builds towards next year.
Anrich Nortje was not considered for the current ODI squad as he has not yet done enough preparation for the format.
“No, I don’t think Anrich’s done enough in terms of getting ready for ODI cricket,” Conrad said. “But I wouldn’t be too surprised if he wasn’t playing in the Bangladesh series as well.”
Gerald Coetzee is also being carefully managed following an injury-disrupted period. However, Conrad was encouraged by the fast bowler’s recent progress with the South Africa A side.
“I’d like to think that he’s over all the injuries, touch wood,” he said. “He’s had a good winter playing a four-day game for the A side and was meant to play. He’s also on track, so I’m really happy with where he’s at.”
Conrad views both Coetzee and Nortje as valuable pace options for South Africa as the team looks to strengthen its bowling attack for the future.
“Guys like Gerald, Anna, have express pace and those are wonderful options to have as we build towards next year,” he said.
Nandre Burger is recovering from what Conrad believes was a stress fracture and is taking a conservative approach to his treatment, with surgery not currently required.
“We’re not quite sure how long that’s going to take,” Conrad said.
Although Burger is not a contracted player, the Proteas medical team will continue working closely with the Western Province Cobras’ medical staff to monitor his recovery and progress.
For now, Rabada’s rehabilitation remains the major focus, with South Africa hopeful that their premier fast bowler will recover in time to lead the attack in the upcoming Test series.
