ICC World Cup 2019: Anrich Nortje Ruled Out, Chris Morris Named Replacement

South Africa have suffered a huge blow before the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. The Proteas lanky fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out from the forthcoming ODI showpiece. Subsequently, all-rounder, Chris Morris has been named the replacement for injured Anrich Nortje. The right-handed fast bowler has suffered a hand injury. Nortje had made his way into the World Cup despite playing only four ODIs but he is now ruled out with a fractured hand.

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Meanwhile, Anrich Nortje was also destined to play for Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing Indian Premier League. However, he was ruled from the tournament due to a shoulder injury.

“Anrich sustained a fracture to his right thumb during a net session in Port Elizabeth on Monday. He immediately consulted a hand surgeon and underwent surgery to stabilise the joint and will unfortunately be side-lined for up to eight weeks. This makes him unavailable for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup,” Proteas team manager, Dr Mohammed Moosajee, said.

“It is an unfortunate and freakish injury, especially because he had made a successful recovery from the shoulder injury he sustained during the series against Sri Lanka.

“He has had a few injury setbacks in the last year but knowing Anrich’s character, he will be motivated to come back stronger. We wish him a speedy recovery.”

On the other hand, Chris Morris is currently playing for the Delhi Capitals on the ongoing Indian Premier League. Morris isn’t in the best of forms with the bat. However, the talisman all-rounder has done a decent job with the ball.

The lanky fast bowler has scalped 13 wickets in the nine matches in the ongoing season. However, he has scored only 32 runs in the six innings he has played. Thus, Morris can be an X-factor for the Proteas.

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“Chris has always been in our plans and is our next best option with the ball,” CSA convenor of selectors Linda Zondi explained.

“He has the pace and death-bowling skills which will be vital in the UK, and also gives us that depth as a deadly finisher with the bat.

“We have had concerns around his injuries and workload capabilities but this is an opportunity for him to make a mark on the biggest stage.

“Admittedly, the injuries ahead of the tournament have been frustrating but I continue to have confidence that the players we have selected will make the country proud. 

“It is unfortunate what has happened to Anrich, he is a talented player with exciting potential. We wish him well on his road to recovery and have no doubt that he will bounce back to fulfil his potential.”

South Africa will begin their World Cup campaign against hosts England at Kennington Oval on 30th May.