For the Proteas to compete in the World Test Championship they need Kagiso Rabada to be in the best shape and mindset.
Rabada had been ridden hard and put away wet over the last few years, and as a result, has started the series against India down on pace.
Without Rabada consistently topping 140 kmph the South African attack, already shorn of Anrich Nortje, started the Freedom Trophy as a one-note symphony.
Against top batsmen on South African pitches, particularly in the Highveld, the extra pace and aggression that Rabada has brought in the past can make the difference for a side.
Rabada has shown great control and his lack of pace is not down to a lack of effort on his part.
He has picked up an overstepping problem which suggests that he is striving in vain for that extra bit of pace.
Carefully managing Rabada back to his best must be a priority for the Proteas team management, even if that means he has to miss matches on a more regular basis.
Rabada has also had to put a lid on his aggression after a couple of incidents when his emotions boiled over after taking wickets, but the Proteas might prefer if he could get closer to the edge without going over.
The secret recipe for great fast bowling, in Rabada’s case, might be more about finding the right rhythm, than getting over any injuries.
When he clicks, Rabada can bowl consistently fast and intimidate even the best batsmen in the world, and find a way to break through when the surface isn’t doing much for most bowlers.
A genetic freak and x-factor fast bowler, Rabada still needs help from the team around him to get him into the best space to help the Proteas get closer to the top of the World Test Championship.
