South Africa announces Test squad for Bangladesh series

South Africa has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, led by captain Temba Bavuma. The selection follows a recent series victory against Australia, which propelled the Proteas to the number one spot in the ICC Test rankings.

The squad features the return of fast bowler Anrich Nortje, who is recovering from a groin injury, and batter Tony de Zorzi, who returns from a hamstring injury. However, Lungi Ngidi remains sidelined as he continues his rehabilitation process. Several players were dropped from the recent Australian series, including David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne, Gerald Coetzee, and Senuran Muthusamy.

South Africa’s bowling strategy is expected to focus heavily on pace, with six seamers available: Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, Dane Paterson, and Nortje. Spin options include Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer. Head coach Shukri Conrad noted that Highveld surfaces traditionally favor pace and bounce.

The first Test is scheduled to begin on November 15 at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, followed by the second Test on November 23 at SuperSport Park in Centurion. This series is part of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship.