India, Aug. 19 -- In a major blow to South Africa's pace attack, fast bowler Kagiso Rabada was ruled out of the three-match ODI series against Australia just an hour before the opening match began in Cairns on Tuesday. The 30-year-old experienced discomfort in his right ankle and underwent scans on Monday, which confirmed inflammation, ruling him out of the series.

Cricket South Africa confirmed in a statement that Rabada will remain in Australia and begin rehabilitation under the supervision of the Proteas' medical staff.

"He will remain in Australia and undergo rehabilitation under the supervision of the Proteas medical staff," the statement read.

Rabada's absence is a significant setback for the visitors, particularly as this is the...