“The longer that I’ve played the more I’ve learnt to manage myself”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

South Africa seamer Kagiso Rabada has made it clear that he is the best judge when it comes to managing his workload and avoiding injuries.

Rabada is currently in New Zealand with the Proteas, but he has missed two out of their four games – the one-off Twenty20 International and the second ODI in Christchurch.

The 21-year-old is expected to be in action in the fourth ODI in Hamilton on Wednesday as South Africa will be aiming to claim an unassailable 3-1 series lead. Should that happen, it is likely that Rabada will be rested for the fifth and final ODI in Auckland as it precedes the three-Test series, which begins on March 8 in Dunedin.

“I feel like I’m the main person when it comes to judging how I feel, and truthfully as well,” Rabada, who missed the second ODI with a left knee niggle, said. “Sometimes you play with niggles, sometimes you feel fresh, sometimes niggles come and then they go away, sometimes they stay for a bit longer.

“The longer that I’ve played the more I’ve learnt to manage myself, with the help of the medical team who give me advice, and I take it accordingly.”

Rabada also admitted that he understood the logic behind rotating bowlers, saying: “Sometimes you have to put your ego aside.”