South Africa have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match home Test series against Bangladesh, with Tony de Zorzi and Anrich Nortje returning after recovering from injuries.
De Zorzi missed the recently concluded Test series against Australia due to a hamstring injury, while Nortje featured in just one match before being sidelined with a groin injury. Both players have now been declared fit and are available for selection for the Bangladesh series.
South Africa have reduced their squad from 18 players for the Australia series to 15 for the upcoming assignment. Senuran Muthusamy, David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne and Gerald Coetzee have been left out. Meanwhile, fast bowler Lungi Ngidi continues his rehabilitation and was not considered for selection. The Proteas have also recalled experienced batter Zubayr Hamza to strengthen their batting department. The 31-year-old has played eight Tests for South Africa, with his last appearance coming against New Zealand in February 2024. The squad will assemble in Johannesburg on November 11, with the opening Test scheduled to begin at the Wanderers Stadium on November 15. The second and final Test will be played in Centurion from November 23
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Speaking about the squad selection, head coach Shukri Conrad highlighted the importance of pace and bounce in Highveld conditions and explained the team's focus on seam-bowling options.
He also welcomed De Zorzi's return from injury, adding that Hamza's inclusion would provide additional depth to the top order.
South Africa's 15-Member Squad for Bangladesh Test Series
Temba Bavuma (captain), Marques Ackerman, Aiden Markram, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Ryan Rickelton, Matthew Breetzke, Simon Harmer, Anrich Nortje, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Tony de Zorzi and Zubayr Hamza.