Fit-again Tony de Zorzi returns for Bangladesh Tests
Anrich Nortje, who missed the second and third Test against Australia with a groin injury, will be available to feature in the series
Tony de Zorzi, who missed the recently-concluded Test series against Australia with a hamstring injury, has been named in the 15-man South African squad for the upcoming series at home against Bangladesh. Anrich Nortje, who played just one Test against Australia before getting sidelined with a groin injury, has been declared fit to feature in the two-match Test series starting later this month.
South Africa named an 18-man squad for the Australia series but have trimmed it down to 15, leaving five players from the victorious squad. Senuran Muthusamy, David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne and Gerald Coetzee have been left out. Pacer Lungi Ngidi continues his rehabilitation and as a result, wasn't considered for selection.
With three batters left out, South Africa have also handed a recall to Zubayr Hamza. The 31-year-old, who has played eight Tests so far in his career, last featured in February 2024 against New Zealand. The squad will assemble in Johannesburg on November 11 with the series set to kick off four days later at the same venue. The second and final Test will be played from November 23 in Centurion.
"Traditionally, surfaces on the Highveld favours pace and bounce, although we have seen the Wanderers offer some assistance to spin in recent times," Head Coach Shukri Conrad said.
"So with that in mind, there will be greater focus on our seam-bowling options. We know the threat Bangladesh pose and we expect their quicks to be very effective in Highveld conditions. In terms of our batting options, it’s good to welcome Tony back following his recovery from injury, while Zubayr’s inclusion gives us further depth to our top order."
