IPL 2021: Missing out in the first phase was disappointing – Anrich Nortje

Delhi Capitals gun fast bowler Anrich Nortje said it was disappointing for him to miss out in the first phase of the IPL 2021.

As Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the first leg of the IPL, Delhi had to play an overseas batsman in place of him and thus they had to drop Anrich Nortje, which was harsh on the fast bowler as he had performed magnificently in IPL 2020.

Nortje had scalped 22 wickets in 16 matches in the previous season and had breathed down the neck of the opposition batters with his extra speed. The ace paceman from South Africa was once again at his best in the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

The fast bowler got the wicket of David Warner when the Australian hadn’t even got off the mark. Nortje bowled a short delivery which got big on the southpaw and the top edge ballooned to Axar Patel.

Subsequently, Nortje plumbed Kedar Jadhav in front of the wickets. The Proteas fast bowler bowled four deliveries above 150 km/h and bowled at express pace. He also registered the top eight fastest deliveries of the ongoing season.

Nortje returned with impressive figures of 2-12 in his four overs and played a key role in restricting Sunrisers Hyderabad to a paltry score of 134 runs. Thus, the right-arm pacer was awarded the Player of the match for his fine performance.

Anrich Nortje said in the post-match presentation, “Missing out in the first half was disappointing. It was good to have a good start to the tournament for me. Looking at the first game here, it was good to see some grass and then yesterday’s big score – didn’t know what to expect. It was good to keep things simple in the end. Was really happy that I managed to take that early wicket (of Warner). I don’t really focus on who I’m getting out, but I’m happy I contributed to the team’s win”.

Nortje will look to continue the good show and he is going to hold the key for Delhi Capitals. The 27-year old is going to play a key role along with Kagiso Rababad and the South Africa pair is an asset for the Capitals.

Delhi Capitals will next face Rajasthan Royals at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi on 25th September.