In a body blow for South Africa, Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the home Test series vs India which starts with a Boxing Day Test on 26th December. Cricket South Africa announced that the fast bowler who has been South Africa's highest wicket-taker in Tests in 2021, has been ruled out due to a persistent injury.
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Nortje, who hasn't bowled since the World T20 in the UAE has been struggling with a hip injury and related niggles. With 25 wickets from five Tests at a stunning average of 20.76, Nortje has been South Africa's lead strike bowler in the longest format in 2021.
In his absence, Kagiso Rabada will lead the South African pace attack along with Duanne Olivier who will make a comeback to the side after his return from the Kolpak system.