IPL 2024: Is Anrich Nortje Injured? Here’s Why the DC Pacer Isn’t Playing Against Punjab Kings
Anrich Nortje is yet to complete his recovery.
When the Delhi Capitals, captained by Rishabh Pant, stepped onto the field to face Punjab Kings in their IPL 2024 season opener on March 23, one glaring absence from their playing XI was the powerful South African fast bowler, Anrich Nortje.
Why Anrich Nortje Is Not Playing Against PBKS?
Anrich Nortje‘s absence from the Delhi Capitals’ lineup against Punjab Kings on March 23 was due to ongoing fitness concerns, as the fast bowler continues his recovery from a prolonged injury. Nortje recently resumed competitive cricket in South Africa after being sidelined for several months.
Unfortunately, Nortje was sidelined for the entirety of the 2023 World Cup in India, as well as South Africa’s subsequent home series against India in late 2023 and early 2024. Additionally, he was unable to participate in the entire SA20 2024 season with Pretoria Capitals.
Just weeks ago, the Proteas pacer returned to competitive cricket after a hiatus of nearly six months, representing the Warriors in the CSA T20 Challenge match against KwaZulu-Natal Inland. He featured in three matches, all held in Gqeberha, over a span of two weeks before heading to India for the IPL 2024 season.
When Will Anrich Nortje Return Get Match Ready?
As of now, the timeline for Anrich Nortje’s comeback with Delhi Capitals remains uncertain. Nonetheless, his performance in IPL 2024 will be scrutinized by South Africa’s white-ball coach, Rob Walter, in preparation for the T20 World Cup 2024 slated for the West Indies and the USA.