JeetWin Guide
Kagiso Rabada has cemented his reputation as one of South Africa’s finest fast bowlers, following in the footsteps of legends like Allan Donald and Dale Steyn. Known for his lethal pace and remarkable consistency, Rabada has enjoyed success across various conditions, including the spin-friendly pitches of Asia. Although Asian wickets can be notoriously challenging for fast bowlers, Rabada’s adaptability and skill have led to some remarkable performances on the continent. Let’s explore his top three spells in Asia, where he showcased his world-class abilities.
Rabada’s latest spell in Dhaka against Bangladesh ranks as his finest performance on Asian soil. On a typically challenging subcontinental wicket, he spearheaded South Africa’s bowling attack to clinch a comprehensive victory. Bangladesh was dismissed for just 106 in their first innings, with Rabada’s fiery spell yielding 3/26. His dismissal of Mushfiqur Rahim was especially impressive, as he shattered the veteran batter’s defenses.
When Bangladesh came out to bat in their second innings, Rabada unleashed his full repertoire of skills. He tore through the top order, removing key batters and paving the way for South Africa’s win. Although Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s valiant 97 prolonged Bangladesh’s innings, Rabada’s dismissal of Miraz effectively ended their resistance. Finishing with figures of 6/46 in the second innings, he claimed a total of 9 wickets for 72 runs in the match, showcasing his control, pace, and match-winning temperament.
In 2018, Rabada demonstrated his adaptability on a typical Asian wicket in Galle, Sri Lanka, where spinners usually dominate. Bowling first, South Africa faced a tough Sri Lankan lineup led by Dimuth Karunaratne, who scored an unbeaten 158. Nevertheless, Rabada gave South Africa a glimmer of hope by dismantling Sri Lanka’s middle order. He dismissed Danushka Gunathilaka early, then sent Angelo Mathews and Roshen Silva packing in the same over, showcasing his ability to strike at crucial moments. He ended the innings with figures of 4/50 as Sri Lanka posted a competitive 287.
In the second innings, Rabada continued his aggressive approach, taking 3/44 and finishing with match figures of 7/94. He claimed key wickets, including Karunaratne, Niroshan Dickwella, and Dilruwan Perera. Although South Africa couldn’t chase down the total and lost by a substantial 278 runs, Rabada’s seven-wicket haul remained a testament to his stamina and relentless spirit in hostile conditions.
During South Africa's tour of India in 2019, Rabada’s performance in Ranchi stood out, even as his side faced an uphill battle. With India already leading the series 2-0, the final Test began with India winning the toss and electing to bat. Rabada made an immediate impact by dismissing both Mayank Agarwal (10) and Cheteshwar Pujara (0) early in the innings, disrupting India’s start. The Indian middle order, however, responded with a powerful display, as Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane amassed a massive 267-run partnership.
Rabada’s resilience showed as he returned to remove Sharma for a monumental 212, finishing with figures of 3/85 in India’s first-innings total of 497/9 declared. His control and aggression kept the Indian batters on their toes, even as the Proteas struggled. Despite his efforts, South Africa was ultimately bowled out for 162 in the first innings and 133 in the second, leading to a one-sided defeat.
