South African pacer Anrich Nortje is currently considered one of the best fast bowlers in International cricket. His incredible pace could have made him a formidable asset for South Africa for the World Cup which is scheduled to be held in India this October-November. Unfortunately, news has emerged that the 29-year-old won’t be able to join the squad in India due to a lower back injury.
In the second ODI of the five-match series against Australia, Nortje went to the field at home. However, during his bowling period, he had to leave the field owing to a back spasm after delivering just five overs. Unfortunately, he didn’t make a comeback to bowl in the match, but he did come out to bat during the second innings, managing to score 10 runs from 13 deliveries. Following this event, South Africa chose to rule Nortje out of the remaining matches in the series. Their biggest concern was his fitness, and they didn’t want to take any chances with him ahead of the World Cup. It’s worth noting that Nortje had secured a position in South Africa’s 15-member squad for the mega event.
If recent reports about Nortje’s injury turn out to be accurate, it could spell significant trouble for the South African Cricket Team. Anrich Nortje has been the backbone of the Proteas’ bowling attack in recent years, delivering astonishing bowling performances that have been instrumental in securing numerous victories for the team. This, however, won’t be the first time that he will miss the mega event. He also was ruled ahead of the 2019 edition in England due to a fractured thumb, with Chris Morris replacing him.
With Anrich Nortje ruled out for the ICC World Cup 2023, South Africa faces a real conundrum in finding his replacement. During the recent five-match ODI series against Australia, they did provide opportunities to several promising youngsters. It’s quite likely that one of these emerging talents will find themselves on a flight to India. Meanwhile, Magala also suffered a knee injury during the third ODI in the series against Australia. Magala’s only appearance in the series was in the third ODI in Potchefstroom, where he could bowl only four overs, conceding 46 runs for the wicket of Travis Head. The Proteas brought in Andile Phehlukwayo as a like-for-like replacement for Magala.
Nortje boasts an impressive ODI record, having featured in 22 matches for South Africa, where he’s bagged 36 wickets at an average of 27.27. His absence will undoubtedly create a substantial void in the team for the ICC World Cup 2023, particularly considering his ability to generate pace, which can be invaluable in Indian conditions.
Updated South Africa World Cup squad:
Temba Bavuma (c), Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen.
