South Africa name first Test XI, gun quick unavailable

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has named the playing XI for the opening Test against Australia in Durban, with fast bowler Kagiso Rabada ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Speedster Anrich Nortje has been recalled to make his first Test appearance in three years, partnering Marco Jansen with the new ball.

The Proteas opted for a conservative approach regarding Rabada's fitness, hoping he will return for the second Test in Gqeberha. South Africa's lineup features two frontline spinners in Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, alongside seam-bowling allrounder Wiaan Mulder.