Anrich Nortje Set for Comeback in CSA T20 Challenge with Dolphins

Anrich Nortje Set for Comeback in CSA T20 Challenge with Dolphins

South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje is set to make his long-awaited return to competitive cricket this weekend, featuring for the Dolphins in the CSA T20 Challenge after recovering from a series of injuries.

Nortje, who last played during the IPL 2025 in May for the Kolkata Knight Riders, has been out of action due to a stress reaction injury that sidelined him for South Africa’s winter tours. The 31-year-old pacer, no longer on a national contract, has joined the Durban-based Dolphins for the domestic T20 season and is expected to take the field in their opening match against the Tuskers at Kingsmead on Saturday.

“From a personal perspective and a group perspective it's going to be great to get back out on the park,” Nortje said in a statement released by the Dolphins on Tuesday. “I’m always positive and motivated, but towards the end of rehab, you just want to get going because you know what’s around the corner. The last week or two have probably been more frustrating than the earlier months.”

Nortje’s last appearance for South Africa came in the T20 World Cup final in June 2024. Since then, injuries — including a fractured toe and a back issue — have kept him out of action, causing him to miss the SA20 and subsequent international tours. Although he made a brief return in the IPL, he did not feature in the Major League Cricket (MLC) or any international fixtures, opting instead for a focused rehabilitation program.

The CSA T20 Challenge, running from October 29 to November 30, will see all eight Division 1 teams play each other once before moving into an IPL-style playoff structure featuring two Qualifiers and an Eliminator. If the Dolphins reach the final, Nortje could play up to 10 matches in the tournament.

While the pacer has not explicitly stated an aim to return to the national setup, a strong showing in the competition — followed by a successful SA20 stint with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape — could bring him back into contention for South Africa’s future plans.

“It’s always been about trying to see the positives and working towards being better than I was before,” Nortje added. “I’m really happy where I am now, and it’s all about getting some games under my belt.”

The Dolphins will be eager to build on their strong 2024 campaign, where they reached the CSA T20 Challenge final, ultimately falling short against the Lions.