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South Africa’s fast bowler Anrich Nortje will miss the opening Test against Bangladesh as he continues to recover from an injury sustained during the recent series against Australia.
The 32-year-old pacer had to leave the field before the conclusion of the second Test against Australia after suffering an injury. Although subsequent medical examinations found no serious damage, he has not fully recovered and will miss the Johannesburg Test.
South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad confirmed the development, saying the initial concerns about the injury had proved unfounded and that Nortje did not require surgery or any specialised treatment.
“He had a scan at St George’s during the Test, and nothing alarming came up. It wasn’t as bad as initially feared. There was no need for any special treatment, just a period of rest followed by rehabilitation,” Conrad told reporters.
However, the South African team management remains hopeful of having Nortje available for the second and final Test of the series.
“There is certainly a chance of having him for one of the Tests here, particularly the second one. Medically, there was nothing seriously wrong with him, and he has recovered well. He started training quite some time ago and is gradually increasing his workload. He should be fully ready to play by the second Test,” Conrad said.
Bangladesh are scheduled to play two Tests during their tour of South Africa. The opening match will begin in Johannesburg on November 15, while the second and final Test is scheduled to start in Centurion on November 23.
Nortje’s absence will be a setback for South Africa’s pace attack in the opening match, although his possible return for the second Test could strengthen the hosts’ bowling options.
