Cricket
Exclusive: Anrich Nortje Back in Proteas Colours After Injury Layoff Ahead of India T20 Series
Anrich Nortje is back in the South Africa T20 squad after battling injuries. His rehab with Dolphins impressed selectors, earning him a spot for the India tour. Nortje's focus is on staying fit and performing for the Proteas.
South Africa v India: Final - ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup West Indies & USA 2024 by Darrian Traynor-ICC | Getty Images
Anrich Nortje is officially back in the green and gold. After months on the sidelines, the Proteas speedster has been named in South Africa’s T20 squad to face India on their home soil, a welcome boost for a bowling unit that has sorely missed his pace and experience.
For Nortje, the road back has been anything but smooth. Once considered a regular fixture in the national setup, his season was derailed by persistent injuries that forced him into an extended break from international cricket.
“It’s really good to be back,” Nortje said, reflecting on his path to recovery.
“Even back in franchise cricket, it’s been a change for me, now playing for the Dolphins. Just being on the park and playing has been great.”
Months of Rehab, One Goal in Mind
The fast bowler admitted the past few months tested him mentally as much as physically.
“It’s been a few months of rehab and off time. You can bowl in the net as much as you want, but getting on the field and getting a game is what you want," he told SportsBoom.co.za.
His performances for the Dolphins, his new domestic home, were enough to convince selectors that he was ready for a return to international duty. But Nortje insists he never looked too far ahead.
“For me it was always about taking it game by game,” he said.
“You always want to be a part of the Proteas again. For me it was just focusing on what I can control.”
Staying Connected, Staying Motivated
With Shukri Conrad overseeing South Africa's all three squads, the environment around the national team has been one of constant evolution. Asked whether Conrad stayed in touch during his recovery, Nortje responded with a laugh.
“[Laughs] No surprises. He did ask how I was doing.”
His return now gives the Proteas a timely injection of firepower as they prepare for a challenging series in India, where South Africa’s bowlers will need every ounce of skill and intensity.
For Nortje, the mission is simple: get back on the field, stay fit, and contribute.
Nathan has over a decade of knowledge and experience, both as a former professional sportsperson and journalist. Nathan, a former radio sports presenter and producer is an award-winning community radio sports producer/presenter.