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South Africa fast bowler Nortje set for Test comeback after four-year hiatus

Anrich Nortje could return to international cricket after nearly four years away as South Africa prepares for the opening Test against Australia in Durban this Friday. The recall comes as the Proteas deal with ongoing injury concerns in their bowling attack.

LSN Singapore · 4 October 2026

South Africa fast bowler Nortje set for Test comeback after four-year hiatus

South Africa's fast bowling contingent has received a potential boost with Anrich Nortje in line to make a significant return to Test cricket when the team faces Australia in Durban on Friday. The 29-year-old has been sidelined from first-class competition for almost four years due to injury setbacks that have hampered his career trajectory.

Nortje's potential availability assumes greater significance given South Africa's depleted bowling resources heading into the opening match of the series. The national selectors have been forced to navigate a testing injury landscape as they prepare their pace attack to counter Australia's batting lineup.

Should Nortje be cleared to play, his return would represent a major development in South Africa's Test squad composition. The fast bowler was previously regarded as a key member of the national bowling unit before his extended absence from the international stage.

The Durban Test marks the beginning of what is expected to be a closely contested series between the two nations. South Africa will be looking to field a competitive bowling attack despite the ongoing injury challenges that have complicated selection decisions in the lead-up to the match.