Xtra Time Web Desk: South Africa cricket team were dealt a huge blow as pacer duo Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 because of injuries. Nortje has a lower back spasm while Magala is sidelined with a knee injury. All-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo and Lizaad Williams have been named as replacements for Magala and Nortje.
Nortje has been spearheading the pace attack for the Proteas along with Kagiso Rabada for the last few years and has won many games for the team with his staggering bowling performances. The Delhi Capitals pacer has also missed the recently concluded ODI series against Australia due to the injury and it is learned that he won’t be fit for the ICC World Cup 2023. 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 Nortje missing the ICC World Cup 2023, it’ll be a great headache for South Africa as to who can replace him. They gave opportunities to quite a few youngsters in the five-match ODI series against Australia. It is likely that one among them will be on a flight to India.
Nortje has has represented Proteas in 22 ODI matches, claiming 36 wickets at an average of 27.27. His absence surely will leave a massive void in the team for the ICC World Cup 2023 as his pace on Indian conditions would be handy.
Here is the Proteas men’s squad for upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: