South Africa's premier fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy and the remainder of the ongoing SA20 tournament due to a significant back injury. Nortje has been out of action since the T20I World Cup last year. This unfortunate development is a major blow for South African, with Nortje being considered as one of the most promising bowlers for South Africa. His replacement will be named in the coming days.
"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," said Cricket South Africa in a statement.
"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.
"He is not expected to recover in time for the 50-over tournament, where South Africa will begin their campaign on February 21 against Afghanistan in Karachi, Pakistan. His replacement will be announced in due course," the statement added.
Nortje was earlier due to make his return to the white-ball series against Pakistan but suffered a toe injury in nets.