South Africa is set to start their ODI series against England on Tuesday, September 2, without star fast bowler Kagiso Rabada. He has been ruled out of the opening match at Headingley due to an ankle injury he picked up from their recent tour of Australia.

Team captain Temba Bavuma confirmed Rabada’s absence. It seems the squad didn’t want to take risks with one of their key bowlers. The squad will also miss their opener, Matthew Breetzke. He currently has a hamstring strain and is resting as a precaution.

Playing without Rabada is a big blow for the Proteas, given his experience and strike power. Breetzke's injury also adds to the challenge. This leaves the squad without one of their key batters.

Adding to the list of absentees, young bowler Kwena Maphaka will also not play in the first ODI. He’s part of South Africa’s T20 and ODI squads, so the team looks to manage his workload carefully.

Meanwhile, veteran batter David Miller is also out of the ODI squad. Still, he remains part of the T20 setup. He will also stay as a part of South Africa’s 2027 World Cup squad.

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