Vernon Philander is set to make his comeback for the Cape Cobras in a Sunfoil Series match against the Dolphins on Thursday.

Philander only recently recovered from an ankle injury.

Philander last played for South Africa in the first Test against India at the beginning of November last year. He sustained the ankle injury while playing a game of soccer as part of the warm-up ahead of the second Test and missed the rest of that series and the subsequent visit from England.

Philander played a game for Tygerberg Cricket Club against UCT a few weeks ago and is ready to make his comeback to professional cricket.

Rory Kleinveldt also returns for the Cobras while captain Omphile Ramela is on study leave which means Justin Ontong is set to deputise.

The clash against the Dolphins has little riding on the outcome – both teams are out of the title race – with just two rounds remaining in the season.