Top 5 Potential Replacements for Injured Anrich Nortje in KKR Squad for IPL 2025

With IPL 2025 just around the corner, Kolkata Knight Riders have been dealt a major setback—Anrich Nortje has been ruled out due to a back injury. The South African speedster, who was snapped up for ₹6.5 crore in the auction, last played in December’s Abu Dhabi T10 tournament but has since struggled with fitness.

KKR is set to open the tournament against RCB on March 22, and if Nortje doesn’t recover in time, they may need a replacement. Here are five bowlers who could step in for him.

1. Riley Meredith

The Australian pacer has IPL experience, having played for PBKS and MI. In his 18 IPL appearances, he has picked up 19 wickets. Currently playing in the Big Bash League for Hobart Hurricanes, Meredith has taken 11 wickets in 7 matches. With raw pace and T20 experience, he could be a strong candidate to replace Nortje.

2. Mustafizur Rahman

Despite going unsold in the 2025 auction, Mustafizur remains a seasoned T20 bowler with a strong IPL record. Across 57 IPL matches, he has claimed 61 wickets, with standout performances in 2016, 2021, and 2024. Known for his deceptive cutters and variations, the Bangladeshi left-armer could provide KKR with a valuable bowling option.

3. Will O’Rourke

The young New Zealand fast bowler has already made an impression in Test cricket. He gained crucial experience bowling in Indian conditions during New Zealand’s recent whitewash over India, troubling batters in the process. Though relatively untested in white-ball formats, his potential and adaptability make him an exciting replacement choice for KKR.

4. Jason Behrendorff

A left-arm pacer with previous IPL experience, Behrendorff played for MI in 2023, picking up 14 wickets in 12 matches. His ongoing BBL campaign with Perth Scorchers has been impressive, securing 14 wickets in 9 games. Given his ability to swing the ball early and deliver crucial breakthroughs, KKR might consider him as a viable replacement.

5. Gus Atkinson

KKR had initially signed Gus Atkinson in IPL 2024, but he withdrew before the tournament to manage his workload. A top red-ball bowler for England in 2024, Atkinson hasn’t played much white-ball cricket but has the pace and swing to trouble batters. Having previously invested in him, KKR might consider returning him as Nortje’s stand-in.

Who Will KKR Pick?

Each of these pacers brings unique qualities:

1. If KKR wants someone with a raw pace, Riley Meredith and Will O’Rourke are solid options.
2. If KKR prioritizes experience, Mustafizur Rahman and Jason Behrendorff could be better choices.
3. Gus Atkinson offers a wildcard option, based on KKR’s previous interest in him.

With time running out, KKR must finalize a replacement soon to ensure they enter IPL 2025 with a balanced squad.

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