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Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have encountered a significant setback as their marquee pacer, Anrich Nortje, has suffered a fractured big toe on his left foot amid South Africa‘s white-ball series against Pakistan. Nortje, who was picked for INR 6.50 crore at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction, has been ruled out of the remainder of the T20I series as well as the ODI series against Pakistan. The injury, confirmed after scans following his absence in the opening T20I, has left KKR in a precarious position regarding their pace attack for the upcoming season.
Injury details and recovery timeline
Nortje is expected to consult an orthopedic specialist to assess the full extent of the injury and determine his recovery timeline. While initial reports suggest that the South African speedster could regain fitness in time for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, his participation in the SA20 league, which begins in January, is also under scrutiny. This injury follows Nortje’s previous setback – a stress fracture in 2023 that kept him out of action for nine months before making a strong comeback during IPL 2024.
Potential impact on KKR’s bowling lineup
Nortje’s absence poses a significant challenge for KKR, especially given the relatively inexperienced pace attack at their disposal. Players such as Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Spencer Johnson, and Umran Malik lack the seasoned experience that Nortje brings to the table. His ability to deliver fiery spells, particularly in death overs, was a cornerstone of KKR’s bowling strategy. Without him, the franchise will need to explore backup options or rely heavily on their young bowlers to fill the void.
Anrich Nortje’s IPL journey and role in KKR
Nortje, a key performer in T20 cricket, has been a standout player in recent IPL seasons. Transitioning from Delhi Capitals to KKR after being released by DC ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, Nortje was seen as a pivotal part of KKR’s title defense plans. With his lethal pace and wicket-taking ability, he was expected to lead the bowling unit and provide stability to a team looking to build on its success from IPL 2024. His injury now creates a gap that KKR might struggle to fill, given the lack of experienced Indian or overseas pacers in their squad.
Also READ: 3 players who can captain Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2025
KKR’s 3 potential overseas pacer options if Anrich Nortje Misses IPL 2025
With Nortje’s availability for IPL 2025 in doubt, Kolkata might need to explore potential overseas replacements to sustain a competitive bowling attack. Here are three options the franchise could consider, all within Nortje’s base price of INR 2 crore:
1. Alzarri Joseph
- IPL career overview:
Alzarri Joseph debuted in IPL 2019 and has played 22 matches, claiming 21 wickets at an average of 32.90. His economy rate stands at 9.55 runs per over, with a best bowling figure of 6/12, the best-ever in IPL history. - 2024 IPL performance:
Joseph played only three matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2024 and remained wicketless in his last game. Despite his strong credentials, RCB released him ahead of the IPL 2025 auction due to not so good performance in the 2024 edition. - Suitability for KKR:
Joseph’s raw pace and ability to generate bounce make him an ideal candidate for KKR, especially on pace-friendly wickets during away games. Additionally, his previous experience in pressure situations could be valuable for KKR’s title defense.
2. Adam Milne
- IPL Career Overview:
Adam Milne, a seasoned New Zealand pacer, made his IPL debut in 2016. Across 10 matches, he has taken 7 wickets at an average of 46.71 and an economy rate of 9.48. His best figures are 2/21. - Recent IPL History:
Milne last played in IPL 2022 for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) but has gone unsold in subsequent auctions. He entered the IPL 2025 auction with a base price of INR 2 crore but failed to attract any bids. - Suitability for KKR:
Milne’s ability to bowl at high speeds and deliver effective yorkers in death overs could make him a good fit. His international experience and ability to adapt to different conditions could complement KKR’s bowling lineup.
3. Naveen-ul-Haq
- IPL career overview:
Naveen-ul-Haq debuted in IPL 2023 and has featured in 18 matches, scalping 25 wickets at an impressive average of 23.64. His economy rate is 9.16, with his best figures being 4/38. - 2024 IPL performance:
Representing Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024, Naveen showcased consistency, but despite his performances, he was released and remained unsold at the IPL 2025 auction with a base price of INR 2 crore. - Suitability for KKR:
Naveen’s ability to swing the ball upfront and bowl accurate slower deliveries in the death overs aligns well with KKR’s tactical needs. His knack for picking up crucial wickets makes him a strong contender to fill Nortje’s shoes.
