The Champions Trophy 2025 is around the corner, and South Africa faces a massive blow with their star pacer, Anrich Nortje, sidelined due to a back injury. Nortje’s last appearance was during the Abu Dhabi T10 in December, and his absence has cast doubts on his participation in the IPL 2025, where he was snapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a whopping INR 6.5 crore.
If Nortje misses out, KKR will need to scout for a replacement to strengthen their bowling attack. Here are five potential options KKR could consider.
1. Will O’Rourke: The Tall Kiwi Speedster
New Zealand pacer Will O’Rourke is an exciting young talent making waves in international cricket. Standing tall with a lethal pace, O’Rourke was part of New Zealand’s historic whitewash against India and showcased his ability to thrive under Indian conditions.
Although his white-ball experience is limited (6 ODIs and 3 T20Is), his adaptability and raw talent make him a strong contender. KKR could bet on him to replicate Nortje’s fiery performances.
2. Mustafizur Rahman: The Experienced Campaigner
Bangladeshi left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, could be a valuable addition to KKR’s squad. Known for his crafty variations and death-over skills, Mustafizur has an impressive IPL record: 61 wickets in 57 matches.
With standout performances in 2016, 2021, and 2024, and extensive experience in T20 leagues worldwide, Mustafizur could bring reliability and experience to KKR’s bowling lineup.
3. Riley Meredith: Australia’s Pace Machine
Australian speedster Riley Meredith, who previously played for PBKS and MI, could be another solid replacement. With 18 IPL matches under his belt and 19 wickets, Meredith is no stranger to the league’s demands.
Currently in fine form, he has taken 11 wickets in 7 BBL matches for the Hobart Hurricanes. Meredith’s raw pace and aggression could add an edge to KKR’s bowling attack.
4. Jason Behrendorff: Left-Arm Precision
Jason Behrendorff, an experienced left-arm pacer, has a proven track record in the IPL. Representing MI in 2023, he claimed 14 wickets in 12 matches.
This season in the BBL, Behrendorff has been a standout performer for the Perth Scorchers, picking up 14 wickets in 9 matches. His ability to swing the ball early and deliver consistent spells makes him a viable option for KKR.
5. Gus Atkinson: A Familiar Face for KKR
England’s Gus Atkinson could make a surprise return to KKR. The franchise purchased him in the IPL 2024 auction, but he withdrew before the tournament to manage his workload.
While primarily known for his red-ball exploits, Atkinson’s ability to swing the ball and his familiarity with the KKR setup could make him a trusted choice.
KKR’s Conundrum: Who Will Replace Nortje?
Anrich Nortje’s absence leaves a significant void in KKR’s bowling unit, but the franchise has several promising options to consider. Whether they go for the raw talent of O’Rourke, the experience of Mustafizur, or the reliability of Behrendorff, the decision will be crucial for their IPL 2025 campaign.
The upcoming months will reveal if Nortje can recover in time or if KKR will need to take the plunge and bring in one of these talented bowlers.(Dubai7-Realmoneygame)