South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is expected to be fit in time the start of the ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales later this month. 

The 23-year-old suffered a back injury while playing for Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, cutting short his participation in the competition.

However, Rabada – the leading wicket-taker in this year’s IPL – is expected to recover in time to face hosts England in the first game of the World Cup on May 30.

Proteas team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said: “Kagiso Rabada developed a significant lower back injury, what we call a lumbar muscle strain, with associated muscle spasm while playing in this year’s IPL.

The Proteas also have concerns over Dale Steyn (shoulder) and Lungi Ngidi (side strain), so news that Rabada is not seriously injured will come as a huge relief.