The Protea speedster Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the Cricket World Cup scheduled in England this month. The paceman has suffered a hand injury during the nets in Port Elizabeth ahead of the World Cup.
Anrich Nortje was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders, in this year’s VIVO IPL but was soon ruled as he sustained to a shoulder injury. His replacement was Matt Kelly in the IPL who could not get a game with KKR.
“Anrich sustained a fracture to his right thumb during a net session in Port Elizabeth on Monday. He immediately consulted a hand surgeon and underwent surgery to stabilise the joint and will, unfortunately, be sidelined for up to eight weeks. This makes him unavailable for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup,” Moosajee (Team Manager CSA) said.
Anrich Nortje has fractured his right thumb, which makes him unavailable for selection for about 6-8 weeks. He has been replaced by the fast bowling all-rounder, Chris Morris who is currently with the Delhi Capitals for the IPL.
Morris was last seen in action for South Africa in a One Day International against India in February 2018. The T20 stalwart has been in hot and cold form in ODIs. But considering the flat pitches in England, Morris’s contribution with the bat lower down the order would be essential.
For South Africa this can be a matter of concern as their prime fast bowling unit, all have been recovering from injuries. Ngidi, Rabada, Steyn and now Nortje. South Africa begin their World Cup campaign against England on 30th May 2019.
