South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of Champions Trophy with back injury

Cricket South Africa has confirmed that pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a back injury. Nortje, a pivotal figure in South Africa's pace attack, underwent scans earlier this week, which revealed the severity of his condition.

Despite his inclusion in the squad earlier, the medical evaluation determined that Nortje would not recover in time to participate in the tournament. South Africa will begin their Champions Trophy campaign against Afghanistan on February 21 in Karachi.

"Pretoria Capitals fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the remainder of the Betway SA20 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a back injury," said Cricket South



Africa in a statement. "The 31-year-old, who was initially named in the Champions Trophy squad, underwent scans on Monday afternoon which revealed the extent of the injury.

"He is not expected to recover in time for the 50-over tournament, where South Africa will begin their campaign on February 21 against Afghanistan in Karachi, Pakistan. His replacement will be announced in due course," the statement added.

The star pacer has not featured in any format for South Africa since the T20 World Cup final in June 2024 and last appeared on the field during the Abu Dhabi T10 on December 2. His fitness struggles have become a recurring issue, preventing him from consistent participation at the highest level.