South Africa Suffer Major Setback, Star Bowler Ruled Out Of ICC Champions Trophy
Photo : AP
In a major setback, South Africa fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy due to a back injury. The South African fast bowler has also been ruled out for the remainder of the SA20 and will not play for Pretoria Capitals this campaign.
Nortje hasn't played since the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024 and Gerald Coetzee is expected to replace the player in the South African squad for the marquee event.
Cricket South Africa issued a statement confirming the development.
“Pretoria Capitals fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the remainder of the Betway SA20 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a back injury.
“The 31-year-old, who was initially named in the Champions Trophy squad, underwent scans on Monday afternoon which revealed the extent of the injury. He is not expected to recover in time for the 50-over tournament, where South Africa will begin their campaign on 21 February against Afghanistan in Karachi, Pakistan. His replacement will be announced in due course,
Persistent injury issues have been a major concern for the fast bowler who was sold to KKR for INR 6.5 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction. His availability in IPL 2025 is also uncertain as things stand.
Earlier the Proteas coach Rob Walter highlighted why Nortje was preferred over Coetzee.
As quoted by Cricbuzz he said, "Gerald Coetzee played very well in the 2023 World Cup, but it was between him and Anrich Nortje. They offer high pace, both of them. Anrich has more experience and attributes that will stand us in good stead in Pakistan. Gerald has done nothing wrong to not be selected."
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