ICC World CUp 2019: Chris Morris In, Anrich Nortje Ruled Out

Chris Morris has been finally called-up for the ICC World Cup 2019 after Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the ICC World Cup 2019 due to an injury.

Anrich Nortje’s World Cup dream was thrashed after he fractured his right thumb while practicing in the nets. Cricket South Africa confirmed on Tuesday, that the fast bowler will need six to eight weeks of rest to make a full recovery.

“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 stabilize the joint and will, unfortunately, be sidelined for up to eight weeks,” said the team manager of South Africa, Mohammed Moosajee.

Recently, Nortje recovered from the ankle and shoulder injuries before making an International debut in March this year. He was selected for the preliminary ICC World Cup 2019 squad based on his performance during his debut series for South Africa.

“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, “ added the team manager.

Chris Morris has replaced Anrich Nortje in the 15-member ICC World Cup 2019 squad. The 32-year-old has not played an ODI match since February, last year. But the all-rounder has been playing the T20 format regularly and can turn out to be a very valuable asset for South Africa in the death overs. Chris Morris recently played the IPL 2019 with the Delhi Capitals. He took 13 wickets in 9 matches at the IPL 2019.

Linda Zondi, the convener of South Africa selection committee said, “Chris has always been in our plans and is our next best option with the ball. 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.”

He added, “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.”

The injury-prone side is having a hard time with their fast bowlers getting injured one after the other. Lungi Ngidi ruled out of the IPL 2019 because of a side strain. While Kagiso Rabada is struggling with back pain and Dale Steyn having problems in his shoulder. They are likely to start their practice after proving their fitness but if they failed to do so, it would be a big blow for the Proteas before the start of the ICC World Cup 2019.

South Africa starts its World Cup campaign against the host England at the Oval on May 30.