Now Reading: South Africa Spring One Surprise for Series Decider as Coetzee Replaces Nortje
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South Africa Spring One Surprise for Series Decider as Coetzee Replaces Nortje
South Africa have gone for stability and a shot of raw pace ahead of the series decider at Newlands. Gerald Coetzee replaces injured Anrich Nortje, the lone change after the Proteas levelled the series 1-1 in Gqeberha. With top spot in the world rankings up for grabs, the stakes are huge.
One Change, Big Impact
South Africa have kept faith with the group that won the second Test by an innings and 31 runs. The only alteration comes in the pace department, where Coetzee steps in for the injured Nortje.
It is a notable recall. The fiery fast bowler earned the last of his four Test caps two years ago, so this is a major opportunity to make a statement on home soil.
Why Coetzee Is the Natural Fit
Captain Temba Bavuma was quick to explain the thinking behind the selection. In his view, Coetzee is the closest match to Nortje in the attack.
“He is probably the closest guy in terms of like-for-like with Nortje as an enforcer in the bowling attack. Gerald has that extra bit of pace. He has been getting his workloads in and we think he can make a big play for the team.” – Temba Bavuma
Pace as an enforcer is exactly what South Africa want in a decider. Coetzee has been building his workload and now gets his chance on a big stage.
The South Africa XI for the Decider
Apart from Coetzee, the side is the same one that levelled the series. Here is the full lineup for the third Test.
| No. | Player | Role / Note |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aiden Markram | Batter |
| 2 | Marques Ackerman | Batter |
| 3 | David Bedingham | Batter |
| 4 | Temba Bavuma | Captain |
| 5 | Matthew Breetzke | Batter |
| 6 | Ryan Rickelton | Wicketkeeper |
| 7 | Wiaan Mulder | All-rounder |
| 8 | Marco Jansen | Fast bowler |
| 9 | Simon Harmer | Spinner |
| 10 | Kagiso Rabada | Fast bowler |
| 11 | Gerald Coetzee | Fast bowler (replaces Anrich Nortje) |
Newlands in Unfamiliar Territory
This Test comes with a quirky twist. There have been 61 Tests at Newlands since 1889, but never one in October. Only three have been played in November, all against Australia.
| Year | Result |
|---|---|
| 1902 | Australia won |
| 1921 | Australia won |
| 2011 | South Africa won by eight wickets |
The 2011 Collapse Still Echoes
The most recent November Test at the ground was a dramatic one. South Africa won by eight wickets after Australia were bowled out for just 47 in their second innings.
Bavuma admits the timing brings some uncertainty. “We have played first-class cricket at this time of year at Newlands, but the way they prepare the wickets for first-class games and tests is quite different. So there is that element of the experience being new to us,” he said.
What Is at Stake
The prize is significant. A win would send South Africa to the top of the world rankings and move them a step closer to the World Test Championship final, which they won last year against Australia at Lord’s.
Bavuma is keeping a level head, though. He pointed out that plenty of cricket remains, with series against England, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka still to come.
“It is going to be a tough encounter and we want to see guys go out and do special things for the team.” – Temba Bavuma
A Decider Built on Momentum
South Africa arrive with the confidence of an innings victory behind them. Australia, meanwhile, will want to bounce back and take the series.
With a fresh, fast Coetzee in the mix and a rankings jump on offer, Newlands is set for a gripping finale.
