Kagiso Rabada: South Africa’s Pace Spearhead Profile

Kagiso Rabada is a right-arm fast bowler who became the spearhead of South Africa’s attack while still in his early twenties. Known for hostile pace, accuracy and a competitive streak, he is one of the leading fast bowlers of his generation.

Early life and rise

Rabada was born in Johannesburg in 1995 and was educated at St Stithians College, where his cricket skills developed quickly. His performances at junior level and in franchise cricket attracted attention, and he soon came to the notice of national selectors, making his international debut in 2014 and establishing himself in the Test side the following year.

Playing style

Rabada bowls at genuine pace, regularly in the 140s kilometres per hour, from a strong, upright action. He combines bounce with the ability to attack the stumps, and he has built a reputation for taking wickets in the first spell and again with the old ball. He is also known for his intensity, particularly in the way he celebrates dismissals.

Career highlights

In 2015, in an ODI against Bangladesh in Mirpur, he took 6 for 16, one of the finest bowling performances by a South African in limited-overs cricket. In Test cricket he has taken wickets consistently away from home as well as on helpful South African surfaces, and he has been among the highest-ranked Test bowlers in the world.

In franchise cricket, Rabada has played in the Indian Premier League for Delhi Capitals (previously Delhi Daredevils) and Punjab Kings, and he has also had spells in county cricket.

Legacy and outlook

Rabada’s career is still in progress, so any assessment must be taken as a snapshot. What is already clear is that he has been central to South Africa’s bowling for many years, carrying on a lineage of great fast bowlers from the country that includes Allan Donald, Shaun Pollock and Dale Steyn.

Frequently asked questions

Where was Kagiso Rabada born?

He was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1995.

What was Kagiso Rabada’s best ODI performance in 2015?

He took 6 for 16 against Bangladesh in Mirpur in 2015.

Which IPL teams has Kagiso Rabada played for?

He has played for Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils) and Punjab Kings.