Gerald Coetzee replaces injured Anrich Nortje in South Africa Test XI
Gerald Coetzee replaces injured Anrich Nortje in South Africa Test XI.
Gerald Coetzee will return to the South Africa Test side for the series-deciding third Test against Australia. The 26-year-old replaces Anrich Nortje, who sustained a groin injury after bowling only 3.3 overs in the second Test at Gqeberha. It will be Coetzee's first Test in almost two years.
South Africa named an unchanged batting lineup. Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma, Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Kagiso Rabada and Coetzee make up the XI. Captain Temba Bavuma said Coetzee's ability to bowl consistently above 140 kph earned him selection.
Australia made four changes to their side. Steve Smith failed a fitness test on his neck and was replaced by Josh Inglis. Cameron Green, Cooper Connolly and Nathan Lyon also return to the XI.
CricHubb Take
Coetzee's recall after two years away from Tests suggests South Africa are banking on his raw pace to unsettle Australia rather than a bowler who's been in red-ball rhythm.