Anrich Nortje shares thoughts on KKR return before IPL 2025
What's the story
South African pacer Anrich Nortje is all set to return to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
Despite worries over his fitness due to a back injury that ruled him out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025, KKR earlier signed Nortje for ₹6.5 crore at the auction.
It will be his second stint with the franchise after a failed outing in 2019 where he didn't play a single match.
Here's more.
Player's statement
Nortje expresses excitement about returning to KKR
Expressing his excitement about returning to KKR, Nortje said as quoted by KKR, "KKR was the first to back me and it's just great to be here (in Kolkata) again."
He added that he is "really excited for things to get going" with the team.
The fast bowler also spoke about playing at KKR's home ground, calling it a "beautiful place" and a "beautiful ground."
Comeback
Nortje's return after injury
Nortje's upcoming IPL 2025 stint will be his return to competitive cricket since December last year.
He had suffered another injury before South Africa's white-ball series against Pakistan when he broke his toe during practice sessions.
Despite the setbacks, the fast bowler is optimistic about the season ahead.
"The most important thing for now is just to get the prep done," he said.
Team information
KKR's IPL 2025 campaign and coaching staff
KKR will start their IPL 2025 season against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 22 at the Eden Gardens.
The team is coached by head coach Chandrakant Pandit, assistant coach Otis Gibson, and mentor DJ Bravo.
Under their leadership, the defending champions hope to defend their IPL title after winning it thrice (2012, 2014, and 2024) and finishing as runners-up in the phenomenal comeback season of 2021.
Stats
Pacer's 2024 season and overall IPL stats
Playing for Delhi Capitals during the 2024 season, Nortje bagged seven wickets in six matches at an average of 42.
He had an economy rating of 13.36 in these games.
Overall, he owns 60 wickets from 46 matches at 26.23, with an economy of 8.96, and the best figures of 3/33.