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Johannesburg - World record goalscorer Pietie Coetzee has made a surprise return to the South African women’s hockey team following the withdrawal of double Olympian Lenise Marais.
Due to work commitments, Coetzee had made an early exit from the World Cup reckoning for the four-yearly showpiece starting at The Hague, Netherlands, on Sunday.
The enforced withdrawal of Marais this week following a leg injury gave Coetzee the chance to come in for the event that finishes on June 15.
Going into her fourth World Cup, Coetzee said her participation was a pleasant surprise.
"Yes, I feel for Leno (Lenise) but at the same time it is great to be here," said Coetzee on Thursday.
"We beat (non-World Cup side) Italy 5-2 in a training game this morning and my fitness is good."
South Africa play reigning World Cup champs, world number two and London 2012 Olympic finalists Argentina on Sunday.
The South African men's team meet back-to-back Olympic champs Germany in their opener, also on Sunday.
