South Africa Playing XI For 1st Test vs Australia Announced: Anrich Nortje Returns As Kagiso Rabada Misses Out

Durban, South Africa – The much-anticipated three-match Test series between South Africa and Australia is set to commence tomorrow, October 9, 2026, at Kingsmead in Durban, with the Proteas unveiling their playing XI. In a significant blow to the home side, pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada has been officially ruled out of the opening encounter due to a hamstring injury sustained during winter training. However, the announcement sees the welcome return of speedster Anrich Nortje, who will form a key part of South Africa's bowling attack. Australia Squad Announced for South Africa Test Series 2026.

South Africa Announce Their Playing XI 

Dafabet First Test Playing XI vs Australia! 🚨

#TheProteas Skipper Temba Bavuma announces the team set to take the field against Australia in the opening Test of the three-match series. 🇿🇦🏏

#Unbreakable https://t.co/WiZxw3OJaJ

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) October 8, 2026

Proteas captain Temba Bavuma confirmed the XI on the eve of the match. Rabada's fitness bid fell short despite the 31-year-old having been seen bowling in the nets. Rabada, born on May 25, 1995, has not featured in any competitive cricket since the Indian Premier League (IPL) concluded in May this year.

Anrich Nortje's Crucial Comeback

Anrich Nortje's inclusion marks his return to Test cricket for the first time in nearly three and a half years, providing a vital boost to the South African pace battery. His last Test appearance was in March 2023. He will share the new ball responsibilities with Marco Jansen. The Proteas have opted for a balanced attack, including two specialist spinners, Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, alongside all-rounder Wiaan Mulder who will serve as the third seam option.

South Africa Playing XI for 1st Test:

• Aiden Markram
• Ryan Rickelton
• David Bedingham
• Temba Bavuma (c)
• Tristan Stubbs
• Wiaan Mulder
• Kyle Verreynne (wk)
• Marco Jansen
• Keshav Maharaj
• Simon Harmer
• Anrich Nortje

Australian Camp Also Battles Injuries

Australia, too, are grappling with injury concerns ahead of the series opener. All-rounder Cameron Green (abdominal injury) and wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis (fractured finger) have been sidelined for the first Test. Nic Maddinson and Sam Harper have been added to the Australian squad as cover.

Match Details - South Africa vs Australia

The first Test of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle between South Africa and Australia is scheduled from October 9-13, 2026. Play is set to begin at 9:30 AM local time (SAST).

Head-to-Head and WTC Context

Historically, South Africa and Australia have contested 102 Tests, with South Africa securing 27 victories against Australia's 54, and 21 matches ending in draws. This series holds significant weight in the World Test Championship. South Africa are the defending ICC World Test Champions, having famously defeated Australia by five wickets in the 2025 WTC final at Lord's. In the ongoing WTC 2025-27 cycle, Australia currently sits atop the points table with an impressive 80 PCT, while South Africa are close behind in second with a 75 PCT. Cameron Green Ruled Out of AUS vs SA 1st Test 2026 Due to Abdominal Strain.

The absence of Rabada is undoubtedly a major talking point, but the return of Nortje and the overall strength of both squads promise a captivating opening encounter as these two cricketing giants renew their fierce rivalry for crucial WTC points.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 08, 2026 04:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).