Nortje ready to lead South Africa’s pace attack on Test return

South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje says he is excited to be back in the national setup as the Proteas prepare to face Australia in a three-Test series starting in Durban on Friday. Nortje has not played Test cricket for South Africa since March 2023 but has been working towards a return to the red-ball format for some time. With Kagiso Rabada’s fitness a concern ahead of the opening Test, Nortje could be called upon to lead the Proteas’ pace attack. The 32-year-old says returning to Test cricket is something he has been working towards and admits it is special to once again be part of the national team environment. “It’s been a few years, and it’s always been in the plan to be back. It’s taken a bit longer than I was really hoping for. Obviously, things have happened over the past few years, but it's really nice to be back. It’s exciting.” Nortje said that his recent involvement in white-ball cricket has helped rebuild his confidence, while his preparations for a return to Test cricket have included a deliberate focus on bowling with the red ball. He has also been working closely with coach Piet Botha, focusing on his bowling action, alignment and creating a more sustainable and reliable action. Nortje said he has even been recording himself during training sessions to identify areas where he can improve. “There’s been quite some effort put in to try and execute as best as I can with the red ball and upskill again. Not just upskill but try and improve from where I left off.” The fast bowler believes his preparations are moving in the right direction and is eager to test himself in competitive conditions during the upcoming series. Nortje also praised the progress made by the Proteas in recent years and says his objective is simply to contribute to a team that has enjoyed considerable success. “Hopefully I can just add one percent, two percent, whatever it might be, to help the team at the end of the day.” The upcoming series also presents Nortje and the Proteas with an opportunity to settle unfinished business against Australia. South Africa endured a difficult tour of Australia previously, and Nortje says that experience remains fresh in his mind. “It was a tough series. Enjoyed the series, learned a lot from it, but we wanted to get them in South Africa and do well.” With Australia now arriving on South African soil, Nortje says the motivation within the Proteas camp is clear. The first Test gets underway in Durban on Friday, with Nortje hoping to make a significant impact on his return to the longest format. Never miss a major story. Get breaking news and the latest developments from South Africa and beyond as they happen.