Conrad targets second Bangladesh Test for Nortje return
WicketPulse · Published
South Africa coach Shukri Conrad expects Anrich Nortje to be available for the second Test against Bangladesh, with the Johannesburg opener likely to come too soon for the fast bowler.
Training return offers encouragement
Nortje has resumed training after a groin injury during South Africa's second Test against Australia. Conrad said the scan had not revealed a serious problem and the bowler was building his workload after rest and rehabilitation.
The coach's assessment sets out a return target. It does not confirm Nortje's selection in a playing XI or guarantee that he will be ready for the first Test.
Two dates in the comeback picture
The Bangladesh series opens in Johannesburg on 15 November. The second Test starts at Centurion on 23 November, giving Nortje more time to build his bowling load.
South Africa have other pace options in their squad, including Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Dane Paterson, Wiaan Mulder and Corbin Bosch. Conrad has also indicated that a spinner will be part of the opening-Test attack. These remain selection plans ahead of the match.