Kagiso Rabada, recovering from a hamstring injury, has been named in South Africa’s initial Test squad for the forthcoming three-match series against Australia, kicking off on 9th October in Durban. His readiness for the series will be evaluated following an intra-squad match next week.
“We’ll give Rabada’s decision as much time as possible but won’t act out of desperation,” said Shukri Conrad, South Africa’s head coach, during a recent press briefing. “After the three-day match, we’ll make a decision.”
While Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman, and Kwena Maphaka, all nursing similar injuries, were not considered for selection, Anrich Nortje, no longer centrally contracted with Cricket South Africa, is poised for his first Test appearance since March 2023. He’s part of an enlarged squad featuring seven fast bowlers. “Anrich is exceptional, with detailed records of his progress. We need to consider if a Test match is the most suitable reintroduction for him,” Conrad remarked.
Back in action, Gerald Coetzee, recently returned from injury in an ODI against Australia, joins the squad, having last played a Test in November 2024. The pace attack also features Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, and Dane Paterson.
In batting, uncapped top-order player Marques Ackerman is competing alongside Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, and Mulder for a slot in the top three. “We’ve maintained our core group,” Conrad explained. “Marques’ leadership and performance for South Africa A has given him this opportunity. It’s exciting to have him in the Test setup.”
David Bedingham is vying for a middle-order place after impressive domestic form, while Dewald Brevis, who played in South Africa’s last Test series victory in India, was excluded. Conrad sees Brevis as a “specialist” for the subcontinent format. “Brevis is akin to a clay-court specialist in tennis; we’ll possibly see him in the subcontinent,” Conrad stated.
Addressing South Africa’s No. 3 position, Conrad was cautious. “Selecting the No. 3 is globally challenging,” he said. “It will depend on our team’s balance. Bedingham is a consideration there.”
The spin attack comprises Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, and Senuran Muthusamy, with potential for two of the three to play, given the expected turning conditions at the coastal venues. “We’ve named an expanded squad to keep options open,” Conrad commented. “If Harmer and Maharaj are amongst the best to clinch a Test, I won’t rule them out.”
Marking their first Test series in South Africa since the 2018 “Sandpapergate” scandal, Australia’s visit promises intensity. Conrad acknowledged this backdrop but urged a respectful edge from fans. “Respect is at the heart of our game,” he emphasised. “Supporters should back us passionately but respectfully. There’s no room for taunting families. Memories endure, yet we focus on respect.”
South Africa’s Test line-up gathers in Durban starting 1st October, gearing up for what promises to be a spirited series on both field and stands.
South Africa Squad for Australia Tests:
Temba Bavuma (capt), Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Anrich Nortje, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne.
