Nortje Returns: South Africa Bolster Pace Attack for Bangladesh Tests
Fast bowler Anrich Nortje is back in South Africa's squad for the two-Test series against Bangladesh. See the full 15-member squad and schedule.
The South African pace battery is getting a massive boost as speedster Anrich Nortje returns to South Africa squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh. After being sidelined by a groin injury that forced him to miss the final two matches of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 series against Australia, Nortje is back to add raw pace to the Proteas' lineup.
Key Returns and Squad Composition
It is not just Nortje making a comeback. The 15-member squad, announced via the ICC website, sees the return of batters Tony de Zorzi and Zubayr Hamza. De Zorzi had previously missed the assignment against Australia due to a hamstring injury.
Temba Bavuma will continue to lead the side as captain. The squad is designed to be a balanced mix of explosive pace, reliable all-rounders, and specialized spin options to tackle the visitors.
The Full Squad Breakdown
- Batting Options: Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton, Marques Ackerman, Tony de Zorzi, and Zubayr Hamza.
- The Pace Battery: Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Dane Paterson, and Corbin Bosch.
- All-rounders: Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen.
- Spin Department: Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer.
Strategy for the Highveld
Head coach Shukri Conrad is keen on maintaining the momentum that has propelled South Africa to the No.1 spot in the ICC Men's Test Team Rankings. Following a grueling series against Australia, the team is now shifting its focus to the specific conditions of the Highveld.
"Traditionally, surfaces on the Highveld favour pace and bounce, although we have seen the Wanderers offer some assistance to spin in recent times. So with that in mind, there will be greater focus on our seam-bowling options," said Conrad.
Series Schedule and History
South Africa will look to replicate their previous success on home soil, where they secured a dominant 2-0 series victory the last time they faced Bangladesh.
The upcoming clashes are scheduled as follows:
- First Test: Johannesburg (November 15 to 19)
- Second Test: Centurion (November 23 to 27)