Rabada ruled out as South Africa locks in first Test XI

South Africa has named their XI for the First Test against Australia, with one familiar face being ruled out with injury.

Test captain Temba Bavuma confirmed on Thursday night (AEDT) that Kagiso Rabada will not take part in the action at Durban, with the fast bowler contending with a hamstring injury since August.

At his best, the right-arm quick is one of the world's best bowlers, with an average of 22.03 alongside 340 wickets from 73 Tests (the fourth-highest wicket total by any South African), making his non-selection a huge blow.

In Australia's last Test tour to the Rainbow Nation, the now 31-year-old was named Player of the Series, managing to take 23 wickets.

Australia's first Test match in South Africa in eight years will also see fast bowler Anrich Nortje play his first Test for the hosts since 2023.

Batsman David Bedingham also makes his first appearance for South Africa since last July.

Australia still hasn't named its side for the match, with Cameron Green ruled out of the series opener with an abdominal strain.

The first ball of the series is scheduled to be bowled at 6:30pm AEDT, with SEN having live coverage of every ball of the series across our radio network and on the SEN app with SEN Sync.

South Africa's XI for First Test

• Temba Bavuma (c)
• Aiden Markram
• Ryan Rickelton
• David Bedingham
• Tristan Stubbs
• Wiaan Mulder
• Kyle Verreynne (wk)
• Marco Jansen
• Keshav Maharaj
• Simon Harmer
• Anrich Nortje