Of course, this being South Africa, Mafaka will know he’s not the only fast bowler who might break the gesture if Rabada doesn’t return in time. So, what increases his chances is that he will have some breathing room in Namibia, as the Test squad does not include Marco Janssen, Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bush, Jan Mulder or Kody Joseph – all of whom played Tests last year. Then again, there’s Duane Jansen, Ethan Bush and Nkopane Mokoena, as was Lutho Ssibamla before he was ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury in Saturday’s game. Andile Simelane was called up in his place. However, few of these players are at Maphaka’s level of speed and potential. He has the advantage in most of the chase group.
