Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise on Tuesday (August 18) confirmed a replacement for England's Chris Woakes, roping in an overseas recruit from South Africa in Anrich Nortje ahead of the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), starting September 19 in UAE.
Woakes had opted out of the IPL 2020 when it was due to be played in its original window in April-May in order to focus on his Test career with England.
The tournament had to be postponed and later shifted to the Middle East in a new slot in the calendar due to COVID-19 pandemic.
Nevertheless, Nortje, the tall right-arm pacer who was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the previous season and has featured in six Tests, seven ODIs and three T20Is for South Africa, has been confirmed as Woakes' replacement.
"I am excited to join the Delhi Capitals, a team that was the talk of the tournament last season," the 26-year-old was quoted as saying in a statement released by Delhi franchise.
"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," added Nortje, who was named Cricket South Africa’s Newcomer of the Year for 2020.
During his IPL stint, Nortje would have the chance to bowl in tandem with his Proteas mate Kagiso Rabada.
He will be hoping to make good use of his height, pace and variations on expected slowish surfaces in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
