Proteas skipper Aiden Markram has revealed the physical hardships star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada quietly endures just to stay on the field.
“The people at home don’t know that he plays through a hell of a lot of pain and puts his body through the most just to try to put in performances for South Africa. That’s exactly what he does,” Markram said in an exclusive interview with IOL.
Though Rabada is only 31, he has been playing Test cricket for over 11 years. The physical toll on a fast bowler’s body after a decade in the game’s longest format is immense.
While South Africa may not have played as much Test cricket as the “Big Three”—England, Australia, and India—in recent years, Rabada’s ability to consistently deliver elite performances every time he hurtles in with the red ball cannot be overstated.
Rabada’s Record-Breaking Test Career and Teammate Praise
In his 73 Tests, Rabada has claimed 340 wickets at a phenomenal average of 22.03 and a remarkable strike rate of 39.5 balls per wicket. In fact, Rabada’s Test average and strike rate are the best in South African history—surpassing even the legendary Dale Steyn.
Beyond the numbers, Markram sang the praises of a teammate he has shared the field with for his entire international career.
“He’s a stalwart. The incredible thing is that he’s always on the field. You get to know guys really well, and I know KG pretty well,” Markram said.
“I think he’s been doing it now since—2015 was his debut or something ridiculous like that. So, over 10 years, and he’s a fast bowler bowling quicker than he’s ever bowled before. That speaks volumes about his character and the work rate he puts in behind the scenes.
“He’s going to keep doing incredible things for the country, and we’re looking forward to the summer where he’s going to come out firing after a good break.”
@Michael_Sherman
IOL Sport
