CAPE TOWN: South Africa coach Ottis Gibson believes the world’s best Test bowler Kagiso Rabada has learnt from his brush with suspension and expects more mature on-field behaviour in the third Test against Australia starting in Cape Town on Thursday.

“He has been made very aware of his on-field celebrations,” Gibson told reporters on Tuesday.

“He’s not a bad kid, he is a bit over-exuberant at times. But there was not aggressive intent there apart from celebrating a wicket. He’s a smart kid and I am sure he has learnt his lesson. I don’t expect he will make the same mistake.”

Gibson acknowledged that having Rabada available is a massive boost to South Africa’s chances of winning the series.

“The number one bowler in the world being allowed to play cricket is exciting for everybody concerned. We are very happy he is allowed to play, we all believe it is the right decision at the end of the day.

“We have made him aware of responsibilities for the team, he is a very important player.”

Gibson revealed that all 17 members of an expanded squad are available for selection and fast bowler Morne Morkel, who was dropped for the six-wicket second Test win in Port Elizabeth, remains in contention as he sits three wickets shy of 300 in what is his last Test series before retirement.

Published in Dawn, March 21st, 2018