Rabada Out, Nortje's 93 mph Thunder Returns for South Africa

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-09

### The Big Call: Rabada Rested, Nortje Unleashed South Africa's first Test against Australia at Kingsmead in Durban is almost here, and captain Temba Bavuma has made a bold call. Kagiso Rabada, the spearhead of the attack, will miss the series opener due to a hamstring injury. In his place, Anrich Nortje returns to Test cricket after more than three and a half years away. It's a gamble, but one that could pay off big time. ### Rabada's Road to Recovery Rabada hasn't played competitive cricket since May, when he turned out for the Gujarat Titans in the IPL. He picked up the hamstring issue during winter training in June and last wore the Test whites in October 2025 against Pakistan. You might remember his heroics in the World Test Championship final at Lord's in June 2025, where he took nine wickets to dismantle Australia. He was spotted bowling in an intra-squad practice match last weekend and completed a session at Kingsmead on Thursday. But Bavuma isn't taking any chances. "He's in the complete care of the medical team until they give the green light," the captain said. The hope is that Rabada will be fit for the second Test in Gqeberha, starting October 18. ### Nortje's Express Pace: A Game-Changer Anrich Nortje last played a Test in March 2023 against the West Indies. Since then, he's been building his fitness in the European T20 Premier League. In net sessions on Wednesday, he consistently clocked speeds over 93 mph. That's serious heat. Bavuma didn't hold back his excitement: "He's a genuine X-factor bowler. When he's firing, he can change a game in a spell." The medical staff will keep a close eye on his workload, given his history of back stress fractures. But if Nortje stays healthy, Australia's batsmen are in for a rough ride. ### Spinning a Web: Maharaj and Harmer Combine South Africa have opted for two specialist spinners: Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer. Harmer comes in for Lungi Ngidi, who is also sidelined with a hamstring injury. The last time Maharaj and Harmer bowled together in a Test was against India in November 2025. Their partnership could be crucial on a Durban pitch that traditionally offers some turn. ### Batting Depth and Balance The fast bowling unit is completed by Marco Jansen and all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, who edges out Corbin Bosch for the number six spot. Mulder's batting depth gives the team more balance. Kyle Verreynne takes the gloves and bats at seven. At the top of the order, Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton open, with David Bedingham at three. Captain Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs round out the middle order at four and five. It's a line-up that mixes experience with youthful flair. ### Series Context: A Long-Awaited Clash This series marks the first Test meeting between South Africa and Australia on South African soil since 2017/18. The hosts will take confidence from their recent 2-1 ODI series win over the Aussies. With the World Test Championship points at stake, every match counts. South Africa's XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Anrich Nortje. Reserves: Marques Ackermann, Gerald Coetzee, Dane Paterson, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada. All eyes will be on Nortje's pace and whether South Africa can draw first blood without their strike bowler. It's going to be a fascinating contest.