Anrich Nortje Ruled Out of South Africa-Pakistan White-Ball Series
- Pacer Anrich Nortje is ruled out of the white-ball series against Pakistan due to a toe injury.
- Uncapped all-rounder Dayyaan Galiem is named as his replacement.
- South Africa faces Pakistan in the second T20I at Centurion tomorrow.
South Africa has suffered a significant setback as pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the white-ball series against Pakistan due to a toe injury. The Proteas have named uncapped all-rounder Dayyaan Galiem as his replacement.
The 27-year-old Galiem, boasting an impressive T20 record with 46 wickets in 60 matches, is eager to make his international debut and make a mark on the global stage.
Nortje’s absence comes at a critical time for South Africa. The fast bowler has not played for the national team since the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final in June, where he emerged as the standout performer with 15 wickets. Recently, he also opted out of a national contract to manage his workload, further straining the Proteas’ bowling resources.
In addition to Nortje’s injury, South Africa is grappling with other setbacks. Fast bowlers Gerald Coetzee (groin), Nandre Burger (lower back stress fracture), and Lungi Ngidi (hip) are all unavailable. All-rounder Wiaan Mulder also sustained a fractured finger during the first Test against Sri Lanka.
South Africa is set to face Pakistan in the second T20I at Centurion tomorrow, following their 11-run victory in the series opener in Durban. The Proteas posted 183/9, with Pakistan managing 172/8 in response.
A win in Centurion would secure the series for South Africa, while a victory for Pakistan would level it. The final match is scheduled for December 14 in Johannesburg.
South Africa’s Squad:
Heinrich Klaasen (c), Ottneil Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Donovan Ferreira, Dayyaan Galiem, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, George Linde, David Miller, Kwena Maphaka, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Andile Simelane, and Rassie van der Dussen.
