Kagiso Rabada has returned to South Africa to undergo rehabilitation for a lower limb soft tissue infection, as confirmed by Cricket South Africa (CSA) in their recent announcement.

“The 28-year-old consulted a specialist on arrival in South Africa and is being closely monitored by the Cricket South Africa medical team,” said the release.

The infection, however, will have no bearing on Rabada’s preparation or participation in the T20 World Cup, as Cricket South Africa expect him to be fit for the tournament.

It cuts short the 28-year-old’s stint with the Punjab Kings in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League, where he picked up 11 wickets in as many games at an economy of 8.86.

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Rabada is expected to play a vital role in South Africa’s T20 World Cup campaign as the spearhead of their pace attack, having been named in the squad on 30 April.

The upcoming tournament in the West Indies and USA will mark his fourth appearance representing the Proteas in the T20 World Cup, having featured in the previous three editions in 2016, 2021 and 2022.