Durban, Oct. 8 -- The ICC World Test Championship holders, South Africa, have announced their playing XI for the first Test of the upcoming series against Australia in Durban on Thursday.

The series will begin in Durban, before moving to Gqeberha for the second Test and concluding in Cape Town. With all three matches carrying significance in the World Test Championship cycle, both teams will be aiming to start strongly and build momentum throughout the series.

Pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada has been left out as he continues his recovery and builds up his fitness following injury. Meanwhile, Anrich Nortje makes his return to Test cricket for the first time since his last appearance against the West Indies in 2023.

Proteas have named a wel...