To replace the like-for-like services of Sri Lankan cricketers Wanindu Hasaranga and Nuwan Thushara, the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots have signed South African players Tabraiz Shamsi and Anrich Nortje. The Caribbean Premier League season is set to begin later this month.
At the beginning of the 12th edition of the prestigious competition, both players were listed in the 17-person roster and were expected to compete. All-rounder Hasaranga suffered a hamstring injury after the first ODI, and the elusive bowler Thushara was forced to miss the entire India series due to a fractured thumb on his left hand. Since it will take time for both players to heal from their injuries, the South African internationals will take their place.
Shamsi is no stranger to the CPL; during his tenure with the Patriots from 2015 to 2018, he made 27 appearances, took 33 wickets at a pitiful economy rate of 7.06.
Along with Sikandar Raza, a veteran of Zimbabwe, and left-arm spinners Ashmead Nedd and Veerasammy Permaul, Shamsi will be part of a team that is heavy on spin.
Conversely, having never played in the CPL, Nortje will be keen to establish himself, leveraging his vast T20 experience in a variety of international competitions. With 167 wickets in 129 matches, Nortje has an outstanding record and is ready to lead the pace-bowling assault. He is excited to show off his abilities on this new pitch.
Tristan Stubbs, another South African, will be playing with both guys. With another layer of South African quality added to the lineup, the 23-year-old will be keen to make an impression.
St Kitts & Nevis Patriots’ squad for CPL 2024:
Evin Lewis, Andre Fletcher, Rilee Rossouw, Mikyle Louis, Sherfane Rutherford, Tristan Stubbs, Sikandar Raza, Kyle Mayers, Joshua da Silva (wk), Dominic Drakes, Odean Smith, Veerasammy Permaul, Ryan John, Ashmead Nedd, Johann Layne, Tabraiz Shamsi, Anrich Nortje
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