South African cricket fans have been dealt a significant blow with the news that fast bowler Anrich Nortje will miss the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a recurring back injury.
This marks the third ICC event that Nortje has had to bow out from, following his absence from the 2019 World Cup due to a broken thumb and the 2023 World Cup with a suspected stress fracture in his lower back.
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The 31-year-old speedster has been a key component of the South African bowling attack, known for his express pace and ability to unsettle batsmen with his bouncers. His injury not only affects his participation in the Champions Trophy but also sees him missing the remainder of the SA20 season, where he is playing for Pretoria Capitals.
"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," stated Cricket South Africa media release.
"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," added the media release.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) has confirmed that they are in the process of selecting a replacement for Nortje. Gerald Coetzee, another fast bowler with a similar aggressive style, is reportedly the frontrunner to fill the void left by Nortje.
The Proteas are scheduled to start their Champions Trophy campaign against Afghanistan on February 21, 2025, in Karachi, Pakistan. Nortje's absence will be felt, but the team will look to regroup and strategize around their remaining assets as they aim for glory in what promises to be a competitive tournament.
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