Huge Blow for South Africa: Anrich Nortje Ruled out of the Champions Trophy 2025

Anrich Nortje played his last ODI for South Africa in September 2023. He will miss yet another major tournament due to injury.

Just five weeks are left until the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The marquee event is all set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan with the top 8 teams in the world. But just one month before the tournament's start, South Africa suffered a major blow as star pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the tournament.

This news came as a body blow to South Africa, as Nortje, with his experience, is a key player for the ODI setup. However, his injury-driven history has now forced him to miss yet another big tournament for South Africa.

As per the latest updates, the pacer went for scans on January 13 (Monday), and it has been revealed that he might not be able to make it to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in time. His injury was a big shock for the team as he returns to the ODI squad since the end of 2023. But he will feel himself unlucky to be sidelined due to injury.

South Africa to announce Anrich Nortje's replacement for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 soon.

Anrich Nortje played his last ODI back in September 2023 and was out of action due to injury. Recently, he made his comeback and was playing in the ongoing SA20 2025 for Pretoria Capitals. However, his injury has now ruled him out of the remainder of SA20 2025 as well, and there is no hope for him to recover until South Africa's opening clash on February 21.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced the 15-member squad a couple of days back for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, they will have to make necessary changes in it. The CSA hasn't announced any replacement yet, but they are likely to announce it very soon.

South Africa are part of Group B along with Australia, England, and Afghanistan. It is called the 'Group of Death,' with all teams having the capability to make it to the knockout. The Proteas will be opening their campaign on February 21 with a match against Afghanistan in Karachi. They will face Australia and England on February 25 and March 1, respectively.

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