IPL 2020: Anrich Nortje replaces Chris Woakes at Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals have signed South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje as a replacement for Chris Woakes in the upcoming 2020 IPL.

Woakes was bought by the Delhi franchise for INR 1.5 crore at this year’s auction. However, he later pulled out of the 13th IPL edition to make himself available for the English summer. The England all-rounder is also expecting a baby with wife Amy in September.

Nortje was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2019 but a shoulder injury cost him his debut in the T20 extravaganza. Another freak thumb injury then prevented him from playing the 2019 World Cup in England.

“I am excited to join the Delhi Capitals, a team that was the talk of the tournament last season,” Nortje said.

“With its exciting mix of experienced and young players, and a stellar coaching line up, there is no doubt this is going to be a massive learning experience for me. I am grateful to the Delhi Capitals management for giving me this opportunity.”

26-year-old Nortje made his Test debut against India in October 2019. Although he went wicketless in the Test, he has emerged as an exciting fast bowling prospect for the Proteas. Nortje now joins fellow South African bowler Kagiso Rabada in the Capitals’ dressing room. Both cricketers will be joining the Delhi squad in UAE in September first week.