South Africa have announced their playing XI for the first Test against Australia, with the series opener set to begin on October 9 at Kingsmead in Durban. The World Test Championship (WTC) holders have made a notable change to their pace attack, with Anrich Nortje returning to the longest format after more than three years away.

Kagiso Rabada’s absence is the biggest talking point from the selection, with the experienced pacer still recovering from injury. South Africa have opted not to risk him for the opening Test, while Nortje gets the opportunity to make his long-awaited return on home soil.

Anrich Nortje returns to South Africa’s Test side

Nortje will play his first Test for South Africa since March 2023. The fast bowler last featured against the West Indies and has now been handed a return for the important series opener against Australia. His pace will add another dimension to a bowling attack that includes Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj. Nortje will be expected to lead the fast-bowling attack in Rabada’s absence and make an immediate impact against Australia’s strong batting lineup.

Rabada has been left out as he continues to recover from his injury. South Africa have decided against rushing the pacer back, particularly with a long Test series against Australia ahead. His absence leaves Nortje with an important role in the bowling attack, while Jansen will also be expected to shoulder greater responsibility with the ball. South Africa have retained two experienced spinners in Harmer and Maharaj, giving them different options depending on the conditions at Kingsmead.

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South Africa name strong XI for Durban Test

South Africa have otherwise named a settled-looking lineup for the series opener. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton are expected to open the batting, followed by David Bedingham, captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs. Wiaan Mulder and Kyle Verreynne add further depth to the batting order, while Jansen provides an all-round option. The bowling attack is completed by Harmer, Maharaj and Nortje.

South Africa playing XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne (w), Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje.

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