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With the ODI World Cup approaching in less than a month, South Africa has been hit with a blow as two of their premium fast bowlers are suffering from injuries. Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala were named in the squad for the World Cup, which was announced on September 5, but their participation remains doubtful after recent injuries.
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Nortje is undergoing a lower-back issue, whereas Magala has a left-knee injury. This week, the pair will go through fitness evaluations to see if they'll be available for the ODI World Cup, set to take place in India from 5 October to 19 November. Before South Africa departs for India on September 23, a final decision regarding their inclusion will be made, but early indications signify that they both run a risk of missing the marquee event.
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It is to be noted that if Nortje does not recover in time, it will be a huge setback for South Africa. He was unable to play in the first ODI against Australia but did so in the following match. The Protean pacer bowled only five overs before he was forced to leave the pitch. After scans, Nortje was forced to miss the remaining matches and now his availability for the 50-over World Cup remains under cloud.
On the other hand, Magala, who hasn't played any cricket since tearing the webbing in his hand during the IPL in early April, was also ruled out of the T20Is against Australia due to infrapatellar tendinopathy, which is soreness in the tendon. He participated in the third ODI against Australia, bowling four overs, and was again suffering from knee issues.
The selectors are reportedly looking at Andile Phehlukwayo if both Magala and Nortje continue to remain unfit. Their pace spearhead, Kagiso Rabada, also experienced ankle discomfort and missed the last Australia ODI.