South African speedster Anrich Nortje has suffered yet another setback in his career, with a recurring back stress injury ruling him out of action for an indefinite period. This latest injury continues a frustrating stretch for the tearaway quick, who has struggled with fitness issues over the past two years.
Setback Forces Nortje Out of Champions Trophy and IPL 2025
Nortje was originally named in South Africa’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025, but he had to be withdrawn after experiencing discomfort in his back. Despite this, he made a brief return during the IPL 2025, turning out for Kolkata Knight Riders in two matches. However, the comeback didn’t go as planned — Nortje managed just one wicket and had an economy rate of 11.9, raising concerns about his fitness.
He has since been absent from the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 season, and now South Africa’s head coach Shukri Conrad has confirmed the worst — Nortje has suffered another back stress injury.
South Africa ‘Worried’ but Still Hopeful About Nortje’s Return
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Conrad shared his concern over the pacer’s recurring injuries.
“We will have to see the length of the time that he will be out and the extent of the injury. I really feel for him,” said Conrad. “He is a superstar fast bowler and having to deal with setback after setback can’t be easy.”
The coach further acknowledged that this is not the first time Nortje has dealt with a similar issue.
“Naturally, we are worried. In Anrich’s case, this is the second or third stress reaction in his back. It is too early to make a diagnosis and we are definitely not drawing a line through his name,” Conrad added.
Despite the uncertainty, South Africa is committed to giving the 31-year-old every chance to recover and return to international cricket.
“He is 31 years old and we are going to give him every chance to come back. We will have to see what the medical team thinks is the best way forward,” said Conrad.
Nortje’s international appearances have been limited in recent years. Since April 2023, he has played just 13 matches for South Africa — 11 in T20s, two in ODIs, and none in Test cricket since March 2023. His repeated injuries are a cause for concern, but the Proteas are not giving up on one of their most lethal fast bowlers just yet.
