Cricket fans around the world are gearing up for an epic clash as the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final is scheduled to begin on June 11 at Lord’s in London. The high-stakes encounter will see South Africa take on reigning champions Australia in a contest that promises pace, intensity, and world-class cricketing drama.
Anrich Nortje’s omission from South Africa squad raises eyebrows
In the lead-up to the final, South Africa’s squad announcement stirred discussions across the cricketing community. One notable absentee from the Proteas’ pace battery was Anrich Nortje. Known for his raw speed and bounce, Nortje’s presence in English conditions could have been a massive boost for South Africa. His exclusion has puzzled many, especially considering the nature of the pitch and the opposition, with experts believing that his express pace would have been a valuable weapon against the Aussies.
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Nortje claims he was always available for selection
Amid the speculation, Nortje himself has now addressed the matter. Speaking to Sportsboom, the 30-year-old fast bowler revealed that despite not featuring in the national team for nearly a year, he has always been available for selection.
“I’ve been available for the last year, from before the World Cup to December, and only got selected again in December to play. There were a few series I wasn’t picked for, mostly to give opportunities to others. So, from my side, I’ve been available to play for the country, but they haven’t pressed on my button,” said Nortje.
Nortje last played for South Africa during the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. Although named in several squads after that, including the one for the 2025 Champions Trophy, he was sidelined due to injury and subsequently replaced by Corbin Bosch. However, he has since regained full fitness and insists that non-selection is purely a decision made by the selectors.
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