Nortje Ruled Out of Series Decider Against Australia

South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the series-deciding ICC World Test Championship contest against Australia due to a mild groin injury sustained while bowling during the first innings of the second Test at Gqeberha. Scans conducted on Thursday confirmed the extent of the injury, ruling him out of the final Test, according to an ICC release. The 32-year-old bowled just 3.3 overs in the first Australian innings of the second Test and took the important wicket of Marnus Labuschagne for 14. He had to return to the dressing room on account of the groin injury and did not bowl at all in the second innings. Luckily for South Africa, even without him, they were able to beat Australia by an innings and 31 runs to tie the series 1-1, having lost the first Test by 214 runs at Kingsmead, Durban. The Durban game was Nortje's first Test match in almost four years. He took four wickets in the match but looked far from his best. The Proteas haven't named any replacement for him as yet. With Kagiso Rabada back in action from the second Test after missing the first one due to a hamstring problem, Nortje is unlikely to be missed much. Rabada took six wickets in the Gqeberha game to inspire his team to a big win. Marco Jansen, who took a five-for in the first innings, and Wiaan Mulder have played in both games so far. Nortje's injury allows South Africa to look at fast-bowling all-rounder Corbin Bosch or out-and-out pacer Gerald Coetzee for the decider. Or if not that, they can opt for a batter. With Nortje absent, the responsibility of the South African bowling attack will fall even more heavily on Rabada, Jansen and Mulder. The series decider will be crucial for both teams, as the winning side will look to gain an edge in the ICC World Test Championship. South Africa have made a strong comeback after a heavy defeat in the first Test, which has lifted the team's morale. Although Nortje's absence is a big blow, the team management is confident that the quality and balance of the available bowlers can lead the team to success in the decider.