Rado has named Kagiso Rabada, one of the world’s most successful fast bowlers and a key figure in nurturing the next generation of cricket talent, as a global brand ambassador.

The elite South African is known for his pace, discipline and consistency — qualities that mirror the Swiss watchmaker’s reputation for precision, innovation and endurance. As part of the partnership, Rabada will feature in international campaigns and brand initiatives, connecting Rado with cricket fans worldwide over the next three years.

“It gives me great pleasure, humility and pride to be announcing my partnership with Rado,” said Rabada. “Timing, accuracy and performance are critical on the pitch and in watchmaking, so it’s a perfect fit. I’m truly excited for the road ahead.”

Astonishing talent

A right-arm fast bowler, Rabada consistently delivers speeds between 140kph and 150kph, powered by a ‘snapping’ hip rotation often compared to that of a javelin thrower.

His aggressive style is enhanced by an unusually late release, making it difficult for batsmen to predict the ball’s trajectory, while his ability to generate steep, unpredictable bounce has become a hallmark of his game.

 

Since making his international debut in 2014 and his Test debut in 2015, Rabada has built an outstanding career, collecting multiple awards and topping global bowling rankings.

Among his achievements:

• Fastest bowler in history to reach 300 Test wickets (fewest deliveries)

• 340 Test wickets to date

• IPL Purple Cap winner in 2020

• Record of 25 consecutive matches with at least one wicket (Delhi Capitals)

• Fastest player to reach 100 IPL wickets (2023)

He is currently signed to the Gujarat Titans.

More recently, Rabada played a key role in South Africa’s victory in the 2025 ICC World Test Championship final against Australia, taking nine wickets and setting a record for the most wickets in a WTC final.

Rado x cricket: a material match

Rabada’s appointment marks the latest chapter in Rado’s ongoing relationship with cricket.

The partnership represents a natural alignment — two worlds where tradition meets innovation, both driven by performance, timing and resilience.

In cricket, the game’s heritage lies in willow bats and leather balls, while modern equipment reflects its physical intensity. Strategy, timing and endurance remain central to success.

Similarly, Rado’s watchmaking is defined by its mastery of materials, particularly high-tech ceramic, producing timepieces known for precision, durability and reliability.

Creating a legacy

Rabada joins Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who became a Rado global ambassador in 2024. The brand is also a partner of the European Cricket Council, supporting the growth of the game across Europe.

Off the field, Rabada is equally committed to developing future talent. He founded the KG Rabada Fast Bowling Academy in 2023, offering specialised coaching and support to young cricketers to develop their technical, physical and mental skills.

Rado CEO Adrian Bosshard said: “Cricket is a sport of rhythm, poise and extraordinary precision. At Rado, we capture that spirit in our timepieces through material innovation, flawless design and enduring elegance. Kagiso Rabada is an icon on the pitch and an inspiration to many. We’re extremely proud to welcome him as a global brand ambassador.”

Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton (Ref. R32192152)

Movement

Rado calibre R808, automatic, 25 jewels, 3 hands, 80-hour power reserve, antimagnetic Nivachron™ hairspring. Exceeds standard test requirements from 3 to 5 positions for higher accuracy.

Case

Matt black high-tech ceramic case with monobloc construction

Rose gold-coloured PVD-coated stainless steel turning bezel with black high-tech ceramic insert

Laser-structured, anti-fingerprint finish with rose gold lacquered markers

Circular-brushed black PVD-coated titanium case-back with smoked sapphire crystal

Screw-down crown

Water resistant to 30 bar (300m)

Dial

Black with black-tinted sapphire crystal

Nickel-coloured Côtes de Genève decoration

Rose gold-coloured centre wheel bridge

Applied indices with black Super-LumiNova®

Moving anchor symbol with synthetic ruby backplate

Printed Rado and Captain Cook logos

Hands

Rose gold-coloured with black Super-LumiNova®

Bracelet

Matt black high-tech ceramic with titanium three-fold clasp

Dimensions

43.0 x 49.8 x 14.6 mm