South Africa face major setback as Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala ruled out of World Cup

In a major blow to South Africa's hopes in the upcoming 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, star pacers Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala have been ruled out of the tournament due to injury concerns. The devastating news came after the duo failed to clear a fitness test following the home series against Australia.

3 things you need to know

• Anrich Nortje also missed the 2019 World Cup due to a fractured thumb
• Nortje will be immensely missed by South Africa as he is well aware of Indian conditions
• South Africa have called upon Andile Phehlukwayo and Lizaad Williams as replacements

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Nortje's injury struggles 

Anrich Nortje, a key asset in the South African fast bowling arsenal, was initially named in the 15-member squad for the World Cup. His absence due to injury, especially given his prior experience in Indian conditions and status as one of the fastest bowlers in world cricket, is a significant setback for the Proteas as they aim to secure their first-ever Cricket World Cup victory.

Nortje's injury struggles began during the home series against Australia. He missed the first ODI after being rested during the T20I series but returned for the second ODI, only to leave the field after bowling just five overs. Subsequent scans revealed his inability to continue, leading to his withdrawal from the series.

To fill the void left by Nortje and Magala, South Africa have called upon Andile Phehlukwayo and Lizaad Williams as replacements. Phehlukwayo showcased his all-round capabilities during the series against Australia, contributing with both bat and ball. His inclusion will be crucial for South Africa's campaign.

Despite the setbacks, the South African pace attack remains formidable, led by the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Gerald Coetzee. Wayne Parnell, an experienced left-arm quick, was initially omitted from the squad due to injury concerns but remains on stand-by should his fitness improve.

Commenting on the unfortunate situation, head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment for Nortje and Magala while emphasising their value to the team. He also expressed excitement about the opportunity for Phehlukwayo and Williams to shine on the global stage.

South Africa to leave for India on September 23

"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," Walter said.

"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."

The South African squad is set to depart for India on September 23 and will commence their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka in Delhi on October 7. As they set their sights on the coveted trophy, the Proteas will need to adapt to the challenges posed by these unexpected injuries and rely on their depth to make a strong impact in the tournament.

South Africa's World Cup squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Lizaad Williams.