South African pacer Anrich Nortje signed by Delhi Capitals to replace Chris Woakes

Anrich Nortje, the South African speedster who was with the Kolkata Knight Riders in the previous edition of the IPL, has been signed by the Delhi Capitals ahead of this year’s tournament to replace England all-rounder Chris Woakes.

Woakes, who had decided not to take part in this year’s initially scheduled IPL, which was slated to begin on March 29, will not be able to take part in the rescheduled tournament either. The all-rounder is expecting a child this September.

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Nortje, who was ruled out of the IPL last year owing to a shoulder injury, and subsequently the World Cup as well, said, “I am excited to join the Delhi Capitals, a team that was the talk of the tournament last season.”

Anrich Nortje was with the Kolkata Knight Riders last year

“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.”

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The 26-year-old has played six Tests for South Africa since making his debut in Pune last September. He becomes the second South African player in the Delhi Capitals set-up, after Kagiso Rabada, and is set to travel along with him in the first week of September on a chartered flight.