Kagiso Rabada, tied for the most wickets in IPL 2026, is set to play a crucial role for Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, aiming to secure the Purple Cap. Picture: SAJJAD HUSSAIN / AFP
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) heads to the playoff stages, Kagiso Rabada will likely be the only South African involved in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans (GT).
Representing GT, Rabada should be the only SA player involved, although rising star Connor Esterhuizen is also on the books for the men in blue.
Though Esterhuizen has already played five T20I matches for the Proteas, he is yet to make his IPL debut, and it would be a big surprise to see him thrown in the deep end of a qualifier match.
Meanwhile, Rabada is expected to play a starring role for GT in the clash at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala. First ball is at 4pm SA time.
