• Home
  • Cricket News
  • Eng Vs Sa Anrich Nortje Reflects On His Journey As A Fast Bowler

Anrich Nortje reflects on his journey as a fast bowler

image-l74dx896Anrich Nortje dismissed Jonny Bairstow twice during the Lord's Test (Twitter)

South Africa’s win by an innings and 12 runs against England at the Lord’s was the one for the ages. The Proteas bowlers completely dismantled England’s batting line-up and their infamous ‘Bazball’ approach.

One of the highlights of the game was Anrich Nortje dismissing the aggressive batter, Jonny Bairstow, in both the innings at a score of zero and 18 runs. Nortje made a comeback to the Test team after almost a year due to his hip injury.

However, the seamer looked in a control of his game as he scalped six wickets across the two innings. It was the sheer hard work and dedication of the 28-year-old that has helped him master the length balls.

Piet Botha played a huge role in Nortje’s career

Nortje recently opened on his journey as a seam bowler. The South African star recalled his school days when he tried to bowl back-of-hand slower balls but ended up with severe pain in his hips and lower back. The pain was due to the bowler’s braced front leg at the time of the release of the ball.

The Delhi Capitals star decided against bowling with the straight leg and started generating pace with a bent front leg. However, it was coach Piet Botha who worked with the Kariega-born and helped him correct his alignment and pace. Botha made sure that Nortje kept his leg straight to utilize his full potential.

It took three years for the bowler to master the art. Finally, in the Lord’s Test, Nortje exhibited pure class by going for fuller lengths instead of smaller deliveries. This was the same way that the bowler used to send Bairstow back to the pavilion twice.

The seamer not much concerned with the speedometer

Nortje mentioned after the Lord’s victory as quoted by The Indian Express:

"When the rhythm is there sometimes it feels like it is a lot slower but the speed gun says something different and sometimes it feels faster and the speed gun says it is slower. It is something I notice but I don't really pay too much attention to it,"

After a fine performance in the first Test, Nortje will be hoping to continue his exploits in the remaining two matches as well. South Africa will be now facing England in the second Test in Manchester from August 25.

Also Read: Alastair Cook questions England's tactics ahead of second Test match