In a major blow to South Africa, fast bowlers Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala have been ruled of the ODI World Cup 2023 with injuries. Andile Phehlukwayo and Lizaad Williams will take their place in South Africa’s 15-man squad for the tournament that begins in India on October 5.
Nortje has been diagnosed with a possible stress fracture in his back.
He had an episode of cramp-like symptoms during the second One Day International against Australia earlier in the month. Magala, who only featured in the third ODI, has sustained an injury to his left knee.
“It’s hugely disappointing for Anrich and Sisanda to be missing out on the 50-over World Cup,” South Africa’s coach Rob Walter said.
“We sympathize in their omission. We will continue to provide all the necessary support as they work towards their return to competitive action.
“This provides an opportunity for Andile and Lizaad on the global stage. Both players have been part of our winter programs. They have represented South Africa as well in the recent white-ball tour against Australia. They offer great skill sets and we’re excited to have them complete the 15-player squad for this year’s World Cup.”
Anrich Nortje missing back-to-back ODI World Cup
Anrich Nortje, who also missed the 2019 World Cup due to a damaged thumb, is one of the fastest fast bowlers in modern cricket and has a wealth of experience in Indian conditions.
His absence is a serious setback for the Proteas as they prepare for the multi-team competition in India, where they want to win the Cricket World Cup for the first time.
Anrich Nortje was rested throughout the T20I series but missed the opening ODI against Australia. He came back for the second ODI, but after bowling five overs, he left. After scans, he was subsequently declared ineligible for the series.
South Africa leave for India on September 23. The team will play their warm-up games against Afghanistan on September 29 and New Zealand on October 2. Their first game of the tournament is against Sri Lanka on October 7.
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South Africa’s ODI World Cup squad
Temba Bavuma (c), Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Lizaad Williams
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