He played only two games for KKR last season.
Anrich Nortje could play only two games for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their last Indian Premier League (IPL) season. But with an important deadline looming, the South Africa speedster has almost confirmed his chances for the KKR retention list 2026.
After three matches for Dophins in the CSA T20 Challenge 2025, the 31-year-old stands third in the list of top wicket-takers. Nortje has grabbed seven wickets at a decent average of 9.43, while at an impeccable economy rate of 5.50.
Nortje’s top spell includes a match-winning 3/18 against North West – Eastvaal Renault Dragons, helping Dolphins win that fixture by 31 runs.
Watch a short clip his potent wicket-taking skills here:
Dolphins have an unbeaten streak of three games so far, with Nortje playing a crucial role in all matches. The JJ Smut & Co. will play their next fixture against Boland in Paarl on November 14.
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Playing five seasons with Delhi Capitals, Nortje had scalped 60 wickets. The right-arm pacer donned the purple and gold jersey for the first time this year. Unfortunately, a back stress reaction forbade him from playing the entire IPL 2025 season.
In two matches, Nortje could manage a solitary wicket at the cost of 83 runs. It’s terrible for a bowler of his calibre, and someone who’s a successor for Proteas legend Dale Steyn. His only wicket of Punjab Kings batter Nehal Wadhera came in Chandigarh, where KKR lost.
However, this CSA competition marks his return to competitive cricket after his last match played in May. He has already retired from Tests and ODI cricket. However, he had to miss Major League Cricket (MLC) and other T20 leagues during the injury layoff period. Earlier, coach Shukri Conrad mentioned Nortje’s importance to the team and giving as much game time ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. Conrad had also expressed his concern for the senior player.
South Africa will next meet India for five T20Is, and the speedster may push his case for selection. The away series begins on December 9. They will also host the West Indies for three games as their final practise for the marquee event.
As for KKR, the franchise need to make a quick decision on the INR 6.5 crore player. The IPL retention deadline is set on November 15, a day before the pacer completes 32 years of age.
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