All-rounder Chris Morris has been called up to South Africa’s World Cup squad after fast bowler Anrich Nortje was ruled out through injury. Nortje will miss the upcoming tournament after suffering a fractured thumb during practice, the latest injury to hit South Africa’s bowling attack which has already lost Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi.
The loss of the promising 25-year-old is a blow to the Proteas, with Nortje having caught the eye by taking eight wickets in four games at an average of 18.75 since his debut in March. The selectors have turned to Morris, who is currently competing for Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League, to fill the void, with his skDale Steynills with both bat and ball helping him get the nod.
Related: Root Pens Two-Year Glamorgan Deal
Morris earned the last of his 34 one-day international caps back in February, while he has some experience of playing in English conditions having toured with South Africa in 2017. Cricket South Africa national selection panel convener Linda Zondi said: “Chris has always been in our plans and is our next best option with the ball.
“He has the pace and death-bowling skills which will be vital in the UK, and also gives us that depth as a deadly finisher with the bat. “Admittedly, the injuries ahead of the tournament have been frustrating but I continue to have confidence that the players we have selected will make the country proud.”
