Durban, 08 October (H.S.): Reigning World Test Championship winners South Africa have announced their playing XI for the first Test against Australia, beginning Thursday in Durban, with fast bowler Kagiso Rabada missing out and Anrich Nortje returning to Test cricket.

Rabada is still working his way back to full fitness after recovering from injury. He has not played competitive cricket at any level since turning out for Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League at the end of May this year. Nortje, meanwhile, will make his first Test appearance since featuring against the West Indies in 2023.

The three-match Test series between South Africa and Australia will begin in Durban, followed by the second Test in Gqeberha, with the series concluding in Cape Town. All three matches carry significance in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, with both sides looking to establish an early advantage in the series.

South Africa have opted for a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent for the opening Test. Temba Bavuma will captain the side, while Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham and Tristan Stubbs will form the core of the batting order.

All-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen add balance to the side, with Kyle Verreynne taking responsibility behind the stumps. The bowling attack comprises fast bowlers Anrich Nortje and Marco Jansen, alongside spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer.

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

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar