South Africa have named a 15-member squad for their two-match home Test series against Bangladesh, with fast bowler Anrich Nortje returning from injury.
Temba Bavuma will lead the Proteas, who recently beat Australia 2-1 to become the world’s top-ranked Test side.
The first Test will begin on November 15 in Johannesburg, while Centurion will host the second from November 23.
Nortje returns after recovering from a groin injury. Batter Tony de Zorzi is also back after missing the Australia series with a hamstring problem. Zubayr Hamza has earned a place in the squad.
However, fast bowler Lungi Ngidi remains unavailable as he continues his recovery. South Africa have retained Simon Harmer, who took 10 wickets in the third Test against Australia, including six for 15 in the second innings.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, will enter the series following a difficult run in Test cricket. They recently lost the first Test against West Indies in Mirpur by eight wickets.
Bangladesh earlier drew their one-off Test against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. They will face West Indies in the second Test in Sylhet from November 5 before travelling to South Africa.
Bangladesh have lost all six Tests played in South Africa, including both matches during their previous tour in 2022.
South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad expects the pitches to favour fast bowling but remains cautious about Bangladesh.
“We know the threat Bangladesh pose and we expect their quicks to be very effective in Highveld conditions,” Conrad said.
South Africa will assemble in Johannesburg on November 11.
South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (captain), Marques Ackerman, Matthew Breetzke, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Simon Harmer, Zubayr Hamza, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Anrich Nortje, Dane Paterson, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton.
