Chris Morris, Anrich Nortje pull out of CPL 2021

South Africa all-rounder Chris Morris has pulled out of the upcoming season of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) due to personal reasons. This year in the IPL auction, Chris Morris became the costliest IPL player after Rajasthan Royals acquired his services for a whopping 16.25 crores. Morris’ CPL franchise, Barbados Royals, earlier known as Barbados Tridents, have named New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips as a replacement for Morris.

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Meanwhile, with Sri Lanka hosting South Africa in September, several South Africa and Sri Lanka players will also miss the CPL. The list includes the likes of Rassie van der Dussen, Anrich Nortje, and Wanindu Hasaranga.

The Delhi Capitals’ pacer Anrich Nortje was roped in by St Kitts & Nevis for the CPL 2021. However, with him pulling out, the franchise have named Netherlands’ Paul van Meekeren as a replacement. Nortje didn’t feature in any of the Delhi Capitals' games in India. However, with the tournament moved to UAE, he can be expected to feature in the playing XI at some point.

CSK star and former South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis, however, will be in action in CPL 2021 after Saint Lucia Kings retained him for the upcoming season. Du Plessis, one of the highest run-getters of the first leg of IPL, was ruled out of the Hundred after suffering a concussion.

The CPL 2021 is all set to get underway on August 26, with the final being played on September 15. Warner Park will play host to all 33 games of the tournament. Fans, up to 50% of the ground capacity, will also be allowed in the stadium. However, they will have to show proof of the vaccination. The schedule of the CPL was tinkered to make room for the second leg of IPL.