Massive injury concerns for South Africa ahead of ODI World Cup as two pacers scramble against time to regain full fitness

With South Africa's departure for India scheduled for September 23, a definitive decision regarding the inclusion of Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala will be made imminently.

SportsTak

• Mon • 18 Sep 2023

Highlights:

Nortje is grappling with a lower-back injury while Magala's challenge is a problematic left knee.

South African pacers, Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala, face a pivotal fitness assessment this week that will decide their participation in the forthcoming ODI World Cup hosted by India. Both bowlers, initially included in the 15-member World Cup squad, have been side-lined due to injuries after participating in only one match each during the recent ODI series against Australia.

Nortje is grappling with a lower-back injury while Magala's challenge is a problematic left knee. With South Africa's departure for India scheduled for September 23, a definitive decision regarding their inclusion will be made imminently.

"We are continually taking stock as to where both of those players are," South Africa's white-ball coach Rob Walter was quoted as saying by 'ESPNcricinfo' after the 3-2 series win over Australia.

"The fact that they weren't playing today with a week to go before we board the plane for the World Cup is obviously a cause for concern. We would have wanted them out there. There are complications around taking players that are injured into a World Cup because then you have to provide a medical reason to be swapped out," he added.

Current signs hint at the possibility of both bowlers being excluded from the World Cup squad. If they are deemed unfit for the mega event, it is anticipated that all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo might be the next in line to join the World Cup contingent.

"Andile is one of a couple of guys who are part of a broader squad and today he showed us, especially with the bat, what we have seen in terms of his capability," Walter said.

"That knock, you can look at it, and say it was match influencing. A total of 270 looks different to a total of 315 and he was a massive role-player in that. He took an important wicket with the ball as well. I am very happy that Andile was able to deliver that performance today," he added.

South Africa's bowling arsenal faces potential setbacks with the uncertain status of these two critical players, and fans eagerly await the final squad announcement. With the World Cup's high stakes, ensuring the players' optimal fitness and form becomes paramount.