South Africa suffered a major setback ahead of their upcoming ODI series, with pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada ruled out due to an ankle injury. The right-arm seamer has been diagnosed with inflammation in his right ankle, with medical scans conducted on Monday confirming the extent of the issue, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Rabada will now miss the three-match ODI series against Australia, scheduled to be held in Cairns from August 19 to 24. The Proteas have confirmed that the 29-year-old will remain in Australia to begin his rehabilitation process under the supervision of the team’s medical staff.

"Proteas Men`s fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Australia due to inflammation of his right ankle. The 30-year-old underwent a scan on Monday, which confirmed the extent of the injury," South Africa said via a statement.