South African pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of three test matches against India.
SAvsIND: In a massive blow to the South African bowling lineup, pace gun Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the upcoming three matches test series against India following a “persistent” injury, Cricket South Africa (CSA) informed on Tuesday.
Though the cricket board didn’t specify the nature or the seriousness of the injury, reports suggest that Anrich Nortje will remain unavailable for the three matches ODI series.
The South Africa vs India three matches test series will begin on Boxing Day (26th December) in SuperSport Park Centurian.
“Proteas bowler, Anrich Nortje, has been ruled out of the three-match, Betway Test series against India, due to a persistent injury,” CSA said in a statement.
ALSO READ: IPL 2022 Team’s Playing Structure, Matches, Fixture
CSA further in the statement specified that it won’t add any replacement for the pacer in the test squad.
“He has unfortunately not recovered adequately for the expected Test match bowling loads and is currently consulting with specialists to manage and advise on his recovery. No replacement will be brought in,” it added.
It is noteworthy that Anrich Nortje has featured in 12 test matches for his national side South Africa in which he has scalped 47 wickets including three five-wicket hauls.
In the absence of Nortje, the South African pace attack seems to be a little underwhelming. Moreover, his compatriot Kagiso Rabada’s form in the red-ball format has taken a dip in the recent past. However, it will be interesting to see how Rabada adjusts with his line and lengths in the upcoming test series.
ALSO READ: IPL 2022 Franchises Retained Players, Mega Auction Details, Team Salary Purse
