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South Africa Playing XI for First Australia Test: No Rabada; Nortje, Bedingham Return

South Africa have named a balanced XI with Anrich Nortje returning and Kagiso Rabada sidelined while he continues his recovery from injury.

  • On Thursday, South Africa announced their playing XI for the first Test against Australia, scheduled to begin Friday at Kingsmead in Durban, combining experienced campaigners with emerging talent.
  • Pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada remains sidelined while recovering from injury, having not played at any level since featuring for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League this past May.
  • Ace pacer Anrich Nortje makes his long-awaited return to the squad, having last played a Test in March 2023, joining spin duo Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer in the Proteas' bowling attack.
  • Proteas Test captain Temba Bavuma leads a balanced XI, with Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, and Tristan Stubbs providing batting depth, while Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen add all-round options.
  • With all three matches carrying significance in The ICC World Test Championship cycle, both teams aim to build momentum as the series travels from Durban to Gqeberha and concludes in Cape Town.
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cricket.com.au broke the news on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
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