David Terbrugge has been recalled to the South African Test squad after an absence of 17 months, as cover for Shaun Pollock who has sustained a groin injury.

Terbrugge, 27, took 5 for 46 in his most recent match, against Bangladesh at East London in October 2002, and has played six Tests and four ODIs. "I am naturally over the moon," he said. "It has come as a surprise and it is wonderful to win a recall to the senior side."

Terbrugge took 2 for 31 for Highveld Strikers in their Standard Bank Cup final win over Easterns at Johannesburg on Sunday, and will fly out to join the South African squad in New Zealand at 5pm on Tuesday.

"He will serve as an extra bowler who will provide depth," said Omar Henry, the convenor of the National Selection panel. "There will be a tremendous workload on the bowlers, since three back-to-back Test matches will be played."

The first Test begins at Hamilton on March 10.