Overview

• Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after scans revealed he will not recover from a back injury in time.
• The 31-year-old pacer was initially included in South Africa's 15-man squad for the tournament but was forced to withdraw just days later.
• Nortje has struggled with recurring injuries, including a stress fracture and a broken toe, limiting his international appearances since 2023.
• South Africa's campaign in the Champions Trophy begins on February 21 against Afghanistan in Karachi, with Nortje's replacement yet to be announced.
• Possible replacements for Nortje include Gerald Coetzee, who recently recovered from a groin strain, and 18-year-old fast bowler Kwena Maphaka.