South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a back injury. Nortje, aged 31, underwent scans on Monday that revealed the extent of the injury, leading to his withdrawal from the tournament.
This setback continues a series of injury-related absences for Nortje in major ICC events. He missed the 2019 World Cup due to a broken thumb and was sidelined from the 2023 World Cup because of a stress fracture in his back. His last international appearance was in the T20 World Cup final in June 2024, where South Africa finished as runners-up to India.
South Africa’s campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy is set to begin on February 21 against Afghanistan in Karachi. The team has yet to announce a replacement for Nortje. Potential candidates include Gerald Coetzee, who was South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup but has recently recovered from a groin strain, and 18-year-old fast bowler Kwena Maphaka, known for his impressive pace in the ongoing SA20 league.
Nortje’s absence is a significant blow to the Proteas, given his ability to deliver high pace and bounce, which would have been advantageous on the pitches in Pakistan. The team will need to reassess their bowling options as they prepare for the tournament.
Wickets.PK 
Big blow for team South Africa
Makhapa should be the replacement
Great information
Big blow for SA cricket