South Africa vs India | Ottis Gibson expects Kagiso Rabada to tone down in Cape Town Test
SA coach Ottis Gibson believes that Kagiso Rabada has learnt his lesson after a close shave with suspension and will behave more maturely in the next Test, which starts on Thursday. Gibson also revealed that Morne Morkel remains in contention for the Test after being rested in the last game.
South Africa breathed a huge sigh of relief as ICC overturned the ban that was imposed on star bowler Kagiso Rabada following his infamous physical contact with Steve Smith in the second Test while celebrating the latter’s dismissal. A court hearing on Monday saw ICC's code of conduct appeal commissioner Michael Heron stating that he didn’t find the incident to be to be "inappropriate and deliberate" as was claimed. Consequently, Rabada’s punishment has been reduced from three demerit points to one that would allow him to play in Cape Town.
After the verdict, Gibson assured the press that the bowler was well aware of his actions and is expected to tone down in the next Test.
"He has been made very aware of his on-field celebrations. He's not a bad kid, he is a bit over-exuberant at times. But there was not aggressive intent there apart from celebrating a wicket. He's a smart kid and I am sure he has
Rabada has been in terrific form in the series so far, scalping 15 wickets in two Tests, eleven of which came in the last match itself at an average of just 16.80 runs each. Gibson sounded delighted to have Rabada in the side as he revealed that all 17 members of the squad were available for selection.
"He's a strong character. He came after six hours (in the appeal hearing) yesterday and all he wanted to do was practice. Him being available lifts everybody, he is the best bowler in the world," said Gibson.
With the four-match Test series perfectly balanced at 1-1 after two games, both sides are raring to go. And Gibson also revealed the availability of Morkel for the game, who is just shy of his 300 wickets in his last Test series ahead of retirement.
“We are still putting together the final XI at this stage, we don't know where we will try to make a change. That will become a lot clearer this afternoon after practice. We are trying to win a series, we will select a team to do that," he added.
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