Proteas fast bowler Anrich Nortje has not played Test cricket since March 2023.
Nortje has not formally retired from Test cricket, but has chosen not to be contracted by Cricket South Africa.
He recently returned to competitive cricket after four months on the sidelines due to injury. Nortje won’t likely be named in the Proteas XI for next month’s World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s in London, England.
“It’s an exciting time. It’s obviously a massive tournament, the World Test Championship, and a massive opportunity for South Africa. So we’re really excited to see how that can pan out,” Nortje told the Hindustan Times.
“Lord’s has been a good ground for South Africa. I think the team’s done really well there over the past.
“The boys have been doing well over the last few years. The coach, Shukri Conrad, has really brought in some positive energy and changed a few things. But the way they’ve been playing, it’s been brilliant to see everyone sort of chipped in.”
South Africa will have fast bowler Kagiso Rabada available for the WTC final. He recently ended a one-month suspension. Batsman David Bedingham is currently sidelined by a toe injury. Captain Temba Bavuma has an elbow injury.
“Everyone’s performed different combinations at times. But everything’s sort of been towards trying to win the games, which is what you want at the end of the day,” added Nortje.
“I think it’s a really great team. And I’m really excited to see them lift the trophy.”
Australia are the reigning World Test Championship title holders.
New Zealand won the inaugural WTC title.
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