South Africa have suffered a major blow ahead of the three-match Test series against India as pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out due to a 'persistent hip injury', Cricket South Africa said on Tuesday. 

Nortje, who had been in fine form lately, was expected to add firepower to the South African pace attack against the Virat Kohli-led touring side.

Nortje has not bowled since the Men's T20 World Cup in November, and is still struggling with the niggle and does not have sufficient bowling loads under his belt to be cleared to play.

"He has unfortunately not recovered adequately for the expected Test match bowling loads and is currently consulting with specialists to manage and advise on his recovery. No replacement will be brought in," CSA said in a statement.

South Africa have commenced their final preparation ahead of the first Test, starting on December 26. The three-match Test series will be followed by three ODIs.

On the other hand, India have been training at the Centurion after they arrived in the Rainbow Nation last week.

Updated South Africa Test squad for India Tests

Dean Elgar (c), Temba Bavuma (vc), Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada, Sarel Erwee, Beuran Hendricks, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne, Marco Jansen, Glenton Stuurman, Prenelan Subrayen, Sisanda Magala, Ryan Rickelton, Duanne Oliver.