Anrich Nortje Returns to South Africa's Squad for Bangladesh Test Series

Anrich Nortje makes a significant return to South Africa's cricket squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh after recovering from injury. With captain Temba Bavuma leading a strong 15-member team, the Proteas aim to build on their recent success against Australia. The squad features notable players like Tony de Zorzi and Zubayr Hamza, enhancing both batting and bowling options. The first Test is set to take place in Johannesburg, followed by another in Centurion. Head coach Shukri Conrad emphasizes the importance of maintaining momentum as they prepare for this crucial summer assignment.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 2, 2026, 23:58 IST

Nortje's Comeback Boosts South Africa's Bowling Lineup

Johannesburg, South Africa - November 2: Fast bowler Anrich Nortje is set to rejoin South Africa's squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh after successfully recovering from a groin injury. This injury had sidelined him during the last two Tests of the recent ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 series against Australia.

Captain Temba Bavuma will lead a 15-member team that sees the return of batters Tony de Zorzi and Zubayr Hamza, as reported by the ICC.

De Zorzi was unable to participate in the recent Test series against Australia due to a hamstring issue, while Hamza has also been included for the matches against Bangladesh.

Nortje's inclusion significantly enhances South Africa's pace attack, which also features Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson, and Corbin Bosch.

The squad also includes all-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen, alongside spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer. The batting lineup is rounded out by Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton, and Marques Ackerman.

The first Test is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg from November 15 to 19, followed by the second Test in Centurion from November 23 to 27.

In their last encounter on South African soil, the Proteas achieved a 2-0 series victory against Bangladesh.

Head coach Shukri Conrad aims to maintain the winning momentum that has propelled the team to the top of the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings. He stated, “After a challenging series against Australia, our goal is to carry that momentum into the Bangladesh series, which is a significant challenge this summer. The Highveld pitches typically favor pace and bounce, although recent matches at the Wanderers have shown some support for spin. Therefore, we will be focusing more on our seam-bowling options.”

South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Marques Ackerman, Matthew Breetzke, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Simon Harmer, Zubayr Hamza, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Anrich Nortje, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, and Ryan Rickelton.