Johannesburg: South Africa pace spearhead Anrich Nortje on Friday played down the Proteas’ injury concerns ahead of the T20 World Cup, saying the team has the depth and quality to absorb the setbacks, with replacement players performing strongly and ready to step up for the global event.
South Africa were forced to make two changes to their 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup, with Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs included in place of the injured duo of Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira.
While acknowledging the “sad and unfortunate” impact of injuries on the squad, the South Africa and Sunrisers Eastern Cape speedster backed the depth of the Proteas’ T20 World Cup roster, stating that the replacement players are fully capable and currently in top form.
Flamboyant batters David Miller and Dewald Brevis, along with fast bowler Lungi Ngidi, are also battling injuries.
“Obviously, it’s sad to lose and it’s unfortunate. I’ve been on that side as well with a few World Cups and ICC events. But I think all in all, the guys that are replacing have put their hand up.
They’ve done really well,” Nortje told select Indian reporters after Sunrisers booked a place in the SA20 League final with a seven-wicket win over Paarl Royals in the second qualifier here on Friday.
