Anrich Nortje ruled out of T20Is, ODIs against Pakistan

South Africa’s tearaway quick Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the ongoing T20I series against Pakistan and the proceeding three-match ODI series against the same opponents due to a left toe injury.

The 31-year-old was initially ruled out of the first T20I, which the Proteas won by 11 runs on December 10 (Tuesday), after sustaining a contusion to his left big toe during training ahead of the opening match. 

The Cricket South Africa (CSA) press release stated: “Subsequent scans on Wednesday revealed a fracture. He will consult with a specialist orthopaedic surgeon to determine the recovery period.”

This was supposed to be Nortje’s comeback to international cricket. The paceman last played for South Africa in the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup. 

Uncapped bowling all-rounder Dayyaan Galiem has been named as his replacement for the remaining two T20Is. 

The 27-year-old has 46 wickets in 60 T20s at an average of 26.08 and an economy rate of 7.82. In the batting department, the right-hander has scored 723 runs @ 22.59 and a strike rate of 122.95.

The second T20I will be played in Centurion on December 13, while the final T20I will happen in Johannesburg on December 14.

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