Anrich Nortje returns to boost Proteas squad for Champions Trophy

The inclusion of pace kingpin Anrich Nortje, after a number of injury setbacks, is one of the headline features of the 15-member Proteas squad announcement for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be played in Pakistan from 19 February-9 March.

One-Day International captain Temba Bavuma will lead the full-strength squad, which includes 10 players who competed in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, where South Africa reached the semi-finals.

Batters Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs, along with all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, have been selected for their first senior 50-over ICC tournament.

Anrich Nortje, who missed out on the World Cup due to injury, makes his return. The fast bowler has made a full recovery from a left toe injury and is joined by fellow seamer Lungi Ngidi, who has also returned to action following a groin injury.

South Africa has been drawn in Group B, with their opening fixture against Afghanistan on 21 February in Karachi. Bavuma’s side will then travel to Rawalpindi to take on Australia on 25 February, before returning to Karachi for their final group stage match against England on 01 March.

Cricket South Africa High-Performance Batting Lead Imraan Khan will join the support staff as batting coach.

Commenting on the squad, Walter said: “This squad boasts a wealth of experience, with many players having consistently performed in high pressure situations. That kind of experience is invaluable in a tournament like this.

“We’ve managed to maintain the core group of our 2023 World Cup squad, whilst adding fresh talent.

“Our recent performances at ICC events show that we’re capable of reaching the latter stages of global tournaments. We’re eager to take the next step and go even further in pursuit of the coveted silverware.

“We’re also looking forward to Imraan joining our support staff. He will be a great asset as we look to strengthen our batting and continue improving as a unit.”

The squad for the preceding tri-series against hosts Pakistan and New Zealand (08-14 February) will be announced in due course.

Anrich Nortje is part of a strong Proteas squad

Proteas squad: Temba Bavuma (c, Lions), Tony de Zorzi (WP), Marco Jansen (Dragons), Heinrich Klaasen (Titans), Keshav Maharaj (Dolphins), Aiden Markram (Titans), David Miller
(Dolphins), Wiaan Mulder (Lions), Lungi Ngidi (Titans), Anrich Nortje (Warriors), Kagiso Rabada (Lions), Ryan Rickelton (Lions), Tabraiz Shamsi (Titans), Tristan Stubbs (Warriors), Rassie van der Dussen (Lions).

Management

Rob Walter (Head Coach), Khomotso Volvo Masubelele (Team Manager), Imraan Khan (Batting Coach), Anton Roux (Bowling Coach), Wandile Gwavu (Fielding Coach), Runeshan Moodley (Strength and Conditioning Coach), Matthew Reuben (Performance Analyst), Sizwe Hadebe (Physiotherapist), Dr Konrad von Hagen (Team Doctor), Kyle Botha (Logistics and Masseur), Lucy Davey (Media Manager), and Brian Khonto (Security Officer).

South Africa Group Stage Itinerary (all times local)

Friday, 21 February – 14:00 (11:00 SAST)

Afghanistan vs South Africa – National Stadium, Karachi

Tuesday, 25 February – 14:00 (11:00 SAST)

Australia vs South Africa – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

Saturday, 01 March – 14:00 (11:00 SAST)

South Africa vs England – National Stadium, Karachi

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS SQUAD?

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