Young South African fast bowler Kwena Mafhaka stated that he is prepared to take charge of the national attacking team in the upcoming Test series against Australia if injured captain Kagiso Rabada does not recover in time.
Mafhaka has only played two Test matches, but he could gain a significant role in a packed international schedule that includes eight Tests, 12 ODIs, and numerous Twenty20 matches.
Rabada was dropped from the ODI series against Australia after sustaining a right hamstring injury during training. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced that the decision regarding his participation in the Tests will be made closer to the start of the series, scheduled for October 9.
Mafhaka commented on his readiness, saying: 'I had a good start, and I just want to maintain this momentum over the summer. I think I can handle the job if asked. I really hope KG (Rabada) returns in time. But if that doesn't happen, it's one of those situations where someone has to step up, and if it's me, I am very confident in my abilities.'
He added that he previously led the attacking team with the 'Lions,' the South African U19 squad, and played for the 'Proteas' for some time, highlighting his confidence in his skills.
During the off-season, the young player worked extensively with national bowling coach Piet Botha and former South African fast bowler Allan Donald to improve his red-ball technique and achieve consistency, after sitting on the bench for the 'Rajasthan Royals' in the IPL 2026.
Mafhaka noted that after his absence from the IPL, he wanted to focus on playing before the start of the big summer. He mentioned discussing with head coach Shukri Conrad the possibility of skipping winter leagues for rest and subsequent preparation for the season. His main goal is stability, as while he was decent in T20 format, he needed work on longer formats, which would also help in T20.
In addition to the upcoming Test summer, Mafhaka aims to be part of the South African squad for next year's home ODI World Cup. He expressed a desire to participate in the tournament and hopes to become one of the leaders at the home World Cup, noting that he has experience playing in the U19 home World Cup, which he considers a special experience.