Rabada Draws Level With Tayfield in Wicket Tally
South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada now sits second all-time for Test wickets against Australia.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Tennis
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Kagiso Rabada has surged into second place on South Africa's list of Test wicket-takers against Australia after claiming six wickets in a dominant victory at St George's Park. South Africa defeated Australia by an innings and 31 runs to level the three-match series.
Why it matters
This performance marks a significant career milestone for Rabada, who now trails only Dale Steyn on the country's historical wicket charts against the Australians. The victory sets up a high-stakes series decider following a competitive series of matches.
Kagiso Rabada reached 64 career Test wickets against Australia in just 12 matches, equalling Hugh Tayfield's tally. He maintains a bowling average of 21.10 against Australia, surpassing both Steyn and Tayfield in efficiency.
The players
Kagiso Rabada
He is a prominent South African fast bowler who has rapidly climbed the national record books.
Dale Steyn
He is a legendary former South African pace bowler who holds the record for most Test wickets against Australia.
Hugh Tayfield
He was an iconic South African spin bowler whose long-standing wicket tally was recently equalled by Rabada.
Steve Smith
He is a world-class Australian batsman who was dismissed by Rabada during the Gqeberha Test match.
The details
At St George's Park in Gqeberha, Rabada recorded match figures of 2-33 and 4-77 to help dismantle the Australian lineup. His second-innings haul included the crucial wickets of Steve Smith, Matt Renshaw, Nic Maddinson, and Mitchell Starc.
Timeline
October 2026 marked the Gqeberha Test victory.
Tuesday is the start date for the series decider at Newlands.
Season Trajectory
This win revitalises South Africa's standing in the current series and directly impacts the momentum heading into the deciding match. Consistent performances from core players like Rabada are essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the World Test Championship rankings.
Rabada's current form provides a massive boost for South Africa's bowling rotation ahead of the deciding match. With only six wickets needed to break the national record, all eyes will be on his strike rate at Newlands this Tuesday.
The takeaway
Rabada's rapid ascent highlights the importance of individual consistency in high-pressure Test cricket environments. Aspiring bowlers can look to his focus on maintaining a low bowling average as a key metric for sustained international success.
What happens next
The series decider against Australia is scheduled to begin this coming Tuesday at Newlands.
Further reading
For more on local sports updates, visit the Tennis section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by SA Cricket | OPINION | PLAYERS | TEAMS | FEATURES | SAFFAS ABROAD.
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