CSA Rests Jansen, Coetzee, and Rabada Ahead of Packed Schedule

Cricket South Africa has placed Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee on a conditioning block to recover from injuries. Kagiso Rabada has also been given extended rest ahead of a busy schedule. The Proteas' fixtures begin September 18 against Afghanistan, followed by series against India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has implemented a 'conditioning block' for pace bowlers Marco Jansen and Gerald Coetzee, allowing them to recover from injuries sustained earlier this year. Jansen, suffering from a shoulder issue, and Coetzee, dealing with a hip injury, have been absent from the cricket scene since June. Jansen missed the series against the West Indies, while Coetzee was injured beforehand.

Recognizing the young players' chronic physical strains, CSA decided to rest them to ensure optimal performance in upcoming series. 'Both of these young players were presenting with chronic physiological and physical things predisposed to fast bowling, so we realized that we had to step in. We have to give these guys the best chance of being able to perform,' white-ball coach Rob Walter told ESPNcricinfo.

Following a similar approach, veteran pacer Kagiso Rabada has also been given extended time off ahead of a hectic schedule starting September 18 with a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. South Africa will then host India for a four-match T20I series, play two Tests against Sri Lanka, and face Pakistan. Post Test series, they will participate in SA20 and ICC Champions Trophy. 'KG needs rest, recovery, and conditioning windows to perform at his best. We aim to have our best bowlers available and firing for Test cricket,' Walter added.

(With inputs from agencies.)