The much-anticipated 50-over World Cup is set to kick off on October 5, 2023, with cricketing nations gearing up for this prestigious tournament. Teams have started tightening their belts, preparing for intense battles on the field. However, amidst all the excitement, this article brings you the names of five star players who won’t grace the World Cup this year due to injuries.
These players are not just match-winners for their respective teams but also fan favorites, and their absence is a significant blow for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Michael Bracewell: New Zealand’s crafty all-rounder, Michael Bracewell, will be conspicuous by his absence at the 2023 World Cup. Bracewell is currently nursing an ankle injury, which has ruled him out of contention. His unavailability is a big setback for the Kiwi team, as Bracewell contributed with both bat and ball. His versatility would have been invaluable for New Zealand in the mega tournament.
Anrich Nortje: South African pace sensation Anrich Nortje won’t be seen bowling thunderbolts in the 2023 World Cup. Nortje is currently recovering from a lower back injury that kept him out of action. His absence could prove detrimental to the South African team, as Nortje’s fiery pace and accuracy had made him a key asset in their bowling attack.
Wanindu Hasaranga: Sri Lankan star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga is another notable absentee from the upcoming World Cup. Hasaranga was in sublime form, impressing with both bat and ball in domestic tournaments. However, a hamstring injury has sidelined him, preventing him from representing Sri Lanka in the tournament. His dynamic skills would have been a valuable asset for the Sri Lankan team.
Naseem Shah: Pakistan’s young pace prodigy, Naseem Shah, will not be part of the 2023 World Cup squad. A shoulder injury sustained during the Asia Cup 2023 left him sidelined. Despite being a rising star, Naseem’s injury setback means Pakistan will miss his raw pace and ability to take crucial wickets.
Rishabh Pant: The Indian cricket team will dearly miss their star wicketkeeper-batsman, Rishabh Pant, at the upcoming World Cup. Pant’s explosive batting prowess has been a game-changer for India. Despite a road accident in December last year that left him with injuries, he has been on the road to recovery. However, he is not yet match-fit to make a comeback to international cricket, and his absence is a massive loss for the Indian team.
These injuries have not only left a void in their respective teams but have also cast a shadow over the World Cup excitement. Cricket fans around the world will miss witnessing these star players in action, and the teams will have to recalibrate their strategies to cope with their absence.
As the 2023 World Cup approaches, cricket enthusiasts can only hope for a swift recovery for these talented players and eagerly await their return to the international arena. In the meantime, the tournament promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with or without these star performers.
