South Africa World Cup cricket blow as Nortje, Magala ruled out

Anrich Nortje

Sisanda Magala

JOHANNESBURG (AFP): Fast bowlers Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala have both been ruled out of the Cricket World Cup because of injury, Cricket South Africa announced on Thursday.

They will be replaced by all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo and fast bowler Lizaad Williams.

The loss of Nortje is a particularly heavy blow for South Africa’s chances because of his ability to bowl match-changing spells at high pace.

One of the fastest bowlers in the world, capable of speeds of 150 km an hour and more, he was named Cricketer of the Year at CSA’s awards function in July.

Nortje had to leave the field because of back spasms after bowling five overs in his only appearance in South Africa’s recent five-match series against Australia. According to a CSA statement he has a suspected lower back stress fracture.

It is the second successive World Cup that Nortje will miss because of injury. A broken right thumb ruled him out of the 2019 tournament in England.

The heavily-built Magala also played in only one game against Australia and has not fully recovered from a left knee injury.