Pacer returns as Proteas name XI for first Australia Test
Anrich Nortje is all set to make his return to the Test format for the first-time since March 2023.
The ICC World Test Championship-holders South Africa have named their playing XI for the first Test of the upcoming series against Australia in Durban.
Pace bowling star Kagiso Rabada misses out from the lineup as he continues to build on his comeback from injury, whereas Anrich Nortje returns to the Test format for the first time since his last apperance against the West Indies in 2023.
South Africa Playing XI:
Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje.
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Accompanying the duo in the bowling department will be Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj.
Temba Bavuma will lead the side, having captained the hosts to a 2-1 ODI series win in the lead-up to the WTC series.
The Durban Test will mark the first time South Africa and Australia play each other in the longest format for the first time since the WTC Final at Lord's in 2025.
While Australia sit atop the WTC Standings, South Africa are second, with both teams primed to make it to next year's World Test Championship Final at The Oval.
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Series schedule
First Test: October 9-13, Durban
Second Test: October 18-22, Gqeberha
Third Test: October 27-31, Cape Town