South Africa gets a severe blow as their two main pacer, Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala ruled out from the World Cup due to injuries. Andile Phehlukwayo and Lizaad Willams named as their replacements.
Nortje who is their main pacer and will be highly beneficial as he was highly experienced from the Indian pitches due to the part of the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). But during the ODI series against Australia he was having some spasms which is suspected to be a stress fracture in the back and as a result he has to be excluded from the squad.
While Magala was having knee injury during the Australia series where he only played 3rd ODI whereas in the first 2 ODIs he was not included in the playing eleven. He also remained inconsistent in the squad as he was in and out many times due to his knee problem but after the 3rd ODI he was having severe problems and as a result he will miss the World Cup.
Phehlukwayo is a great option as an allrounder and has already shown some impactful knocks and bowling spell in his career whereas Willams is right arm medium pacer and is having less experienced in international cricket and played only one ODI, but he will definitely try to show his great skill in the international circuit.
South Africa coach, Rob Walter said
“It’s hugely disappointing for Anrich and Sisanda to be missing out on the 50 over tournament. We sympathize with their omission and will continue to provide all the necessary support as they work towards their return to competitive action.
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 are excited to have them complete the 15 player squad for this year’s World Cup.”
South Africa New Squad:
Temba Bavuma ©, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Heinrich Klassen, Gerald Coetzee, Marco Jansen, Rassie van der Dussen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lizaad Willams, Tanraiz Shamsi, Lungi Ngidi.