Injury worries have been South Africa’s worst fear as
they prepare for their campaign in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2023.
Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala won’t be representing
South Africa at the World Cup after they failed a fitness test. While both
players were unable to recover after the home series against Australia, Nortje
was included in the first 15-member team.
The quick, 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.
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.
The injured pacers have been replaced by Andile
Phehlukwayo and Lizaad Williams. Phehlukwayo played in two one-day
internationals against Australia and claimed one wicket in each.
Five pacers, led by Kagiso Rabada, are still tightly
packed in the pace attack. The other quicks on the team are Gerald Coetzee,
Marco Jansen, and Lungi Ngidi.
Commenting on the squad, Walter said: “It’s hugely
disappointing for Anrich and Sisanda to be missing out on the 50-over World
Cup. Both are quality players that add immense value to the Proteas. We
sympathize in their omission and 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 as well as
having represented South Africa 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.”