The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is just days away and teams are gearing up for the marquee tournament. As the tournament approaches, the injury list of every single team has become a big concern. Let us look at those star injured players who are game changers for their respective teams.
Tim Southee (New Zealand)
New Zealand pacer Tim Southee bowled just 4 overs against England in the 4th ODI as he sustained a thumb fracture while attempting a catch on the field. Tim Southee did not come out to bat as well. His injury is a big concern for kiwis as they are still not sure about Kane Williamson playing the opening game against England in Ahmedabad. Southee’s update on the World Cup is yet to come.
Shreyas Iyer (India)
Explosive Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer missed cricket action for the last 5-6 months due to a back injury. He made his comeback in the Asia Cup 2023 and played in two league matches against Pakistan and Nepal. After that in the Super 4 round, he once again complained about back spasms and missed the entire Super 4 round. Tilak Varma is waiting on the sidelines if Iyer is ruled out of World Cup 2023.
Axar Patel (India)
Indian spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel has suffered multiple niggles against Bangladesh in the last Super 4 game of Asia Cup 2023. He was also ruled out of the Asia Cup final and the Indian team had to call Washington Sundar as his cover. He is part of the Indian squad in World Cup 2023, Patel’s injury has raised concern over team India’s spin bowling department.
Travis Head (Australia)
Australian opening batter Travis Head was hit by one of Gerald Coetzee’s short balls causing a fracture in his left hand in the recently concluded 4th ODI against South Africa. Australia are already reeling as their main players are still recovering from multiple injuries. The Australian camp is still waiting for a final update on the timeline of Head’s recovery. Cummins, Smith, Starc and Maxwell are already in rehabilitation.
Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka)
Sri Lankan off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana was ruled out of the Asia Cup final against India. Theekshana suffered a strain on his hamstring in Sri Lanka’s last Super Four match of the Asia Cup 2023 against Pakistan and was replaced by batting all-rounder Sahan Arachchige in the squad. He joins in the long list of Sri Lankan injured players including Dushmanth Chameera, Wanindu Hasaranga, Avishka Fernando, and Lahiru Kumara.
Anrich Nortje (South Africa)
South African pacer Anrich Nortje played only one One-day International against Australia and got injured right after the game. He has suffered a lower back injury and will be away from the action till South Africa land in India. Nortje’s experience in the Indian Premier League will definitely be an advantage for his side. South Africa need Nortje fit and fine before they their World Cup campaign.
Naseem Shah (Pakistan)
Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah was replaced by Zaman Khan in Pakistan’s playing XI in Asia Cup 2023’s virtual semifinal against Sri Lanka. Naseem suffered an injury while playing against India in the Super 4 round. According to reports, Naseem Shah is expected to miss the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, which will be a massive blow for their side.