Rabada is a huge figure in the South African couture attack and his loss would be a blow as he battles an ankle problem suffered in the Twenty20 International series between the sides at the end of last month.
“I think he’s about to be in great shape for this test. He’s had a couple of really good days, so it’s looking pretty good for us,” Elgar told reporters on Tuesday, adding that they hadn’t yet finalized their batting lineup either.
The major question is who will replace the injured mid-rank hitter Temba Bavuma in the top five, the latter having been one of South Africa’s most consistent performers over the past 12 months.
Sarel Erwee will likely open with Elgar and Keegan Petersen at number three, with the experienced duo of Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen tipped to take the remaining top two spots ahead. Ryan Rickelton and Khaya Zondo.
Wicketkeeper-beater Kyle Verreynne will register at six, allowing tourists to play a versatile player who will beat at seven.
“I think it’s only because we’ve lost that experience factor (from Bavuma) that we’re more inclined to continue with the experience we have within our hitters,” Elgar said.
“It’s up to the coach and the selectors to decide, but for my part I would learn more to gain experience.”
South Africa are top of the ICC World Test Championship standings, but with series coming up in England and Australia it will be a tough task to stay there. Elgar is convinced they can.
“I didn’t take this (captain) position thinking we were just going to be mid-table. That has always been my goal and my ambition (to be the best Test team in the world),” he declared.
“I’ve seen us world number one twice and I know that feeling, but I know there’s a journey and hard work to get there.
“I want young guys to experience it and I always want to experience it again before I turn the chapter (and retire).”
