World Cup 2019: Rabada set to be fit for opener against India; Steyn, Nigidi still doubtful

South Africa team doctor Mohammed Mossajee said Rabada will be fully fit within three weeks as his rehabilitation is on track

In a major relief to South Africa, young speedster Kagiso Rabada is expected to be fully fit for country's World Cup opener against India in Southampton on June 5. The 23-year-old became the highest wicket-taker of IPL 2019 with 25 wickets for Delhi Capitals. Later, Cricket South Africa pulled him out as a precautionary measure after he complained of a stiff back. However, on Sunday, team doctor Mohammed Moosajee gave confirmation about Rabada’s fitness. “With KG (Rabada), we are extra cautious because of two reasons,” Moosajee was quoted as saying by Cricket South Africa's website. Mossajee said Rabada will be fully fit within three weeks as his rehabilitation is on track. “The anticipated recovery period for KG's injury is two to three weeks and we are hopeful he'll make a full recovery to be part of the World Cup squad,” said Moosajee. “He had a back issue that kept him out of the game for a protracted amount of time. Secondly, there's his importance in the squad, so we're managing his rehab and his return to play very carefully," the doctor said. Moosajee, though, is yet to put a comeback date for the injured pace duo of Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi, who are out with shoulder and side strain respectively. While there was no clarity on when Steyn and Ngidi would get fit, both are expected to travel with the squad to England. If they don't get fit in time, there are enough players on standby, said Moosajee “The selectors have ensured they have enough options on the table but there are some players that have been earmarked as standby players.”