Coming into the opening Test at the Eden Gardens against India, South Africa received a big jolt even before a ball was bowled. Their most experienced fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada, was ruled out of the match, which came as a surprise for many fans and experts. The development was confirmed at the toss by the captain, Temba Bavuma, who revealed the reason for such a last-minute change in their playing XI. Rabada Ruled Out Due to Rib Injury Rabada, according to Bavuma's statement in the toss, had picked up a rib injury prior to this Test and hence was unavailable for selection. The injury occurred before the Tests had started, and it was diagnosed that he must not play until and unless he recovers completely. Since Rabada is a very important part of South Africa's future, the management did not want to take any risk as far as his fitness is concerned. Rabada's absence is a huge blow since he is not just a strike bowler but also one who brings control, experience, and confidence to the bowling contingent. On Indian pitches, where bowlers require accuracy and skill, his presence could have been of great advantage for them. His ability to take early wickets with the new ball and to deliver key spells at tough times is something the South Africans will definitely miss in this game. Also Read | 2182 days later! Eden Gardens get the roar back; When did Kolkata host the last Test? To fill the gap, South Africa brought in Corbin Bosch, who is still fresh into Test cricket. While he has talent and energy, stepping into Rabada’s shoes is a huge challenge for any young bowler. The pressure on Marco Jansen, the only frontline pacer available, has increased now as he will have to lead the attack without his senior partner. South Africa Forced to Change Bowling Combination Rabada’s injury forced South Africa to rethink their bowling strategy. Where they would normally play two specialist fast bowlers, they only have one in Marco Jansen. He will be supported by the seam-bowling all-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Bosch. This is not their usual attack, especially in a big Test match away from home. Alongside them, the Proteas are pinning their hopes on their two spinners, Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, to bowl long spells on an Eden Gardens pitch that assists spin as the game wears on. Meanwhile, India came into the Test with a full-strength bowling attack, comprising Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav. With India possessing an attack of this caliber, Rabada's absence will be felt much more. As the game progresses, South Africa will be looking for their bowling department to make up for it and fill the star pacer's void. Their fans are more or less waiting for the recovery of Rabada, hoping he is back in time for the remainder of the series.