South African Pacer Anrich Nortje Ruled Out Of The ODI World Cup: Reports
Anrich Nortje in action [X.com]
As per emerging reports, ace South African speedster Anrich Nortje is set to miss the entire World Cup due to take place next month. Nortje is struggling with a lower-back problem, which he picked up in the recently concluded ODI series against Australia this month.
He was seen in action during the second ODI match against Australia, where he only bowled five overs and later walked off the field due to a back spasm. He didn't return to bowl in that match but came out to bat in the second innings and scored ten off 13 balls.
Following his consistent struggles with his lower bar, the 29-year-old was forced to be left out for the remainder of the home series as a precautionary measure.
Unfortunately, it was later revealed that Nortje failed to recover in time for the World Cup, forcing the South African team management to reconsider his position in the 15-member squad.
This comes as a massive blow for the Proteas, who were counting on his services to win their maiden World Cup title in India. Nortje is a genuine asset for the South African cricket team in red-ball as well as white-ball cricket.
His express pace continues to torment even the best of the batters in international cricket, as he has claimed 36 wickets for South Africa in 22 ODI matches at a stunning average of 27.27.
This isn't the first time the right-arm quick has faced a World Cup disappointment. Nortje failed to appear in the 2019 edition in England due to a fractured thumb, with Chris Morris stepping in as his replacement. While he continues to wait on the sidelines, it will be interesting to see who comes in to replace him in the Proteas World Cup squad.
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