A disciplined bowling performance followed by Klaasen’s brilliant knock (81 off 46) led South Africa to a four-wicket win over India in the second T20I and helped them take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series at the Barabati Stadium on Sunday.
“I am glad the knock came against India. I hope it extends my career longer. I haven’t performed well in the last couple of years. I am very happy and confident to be here,” said Klassen at the post-match presentation.
Asked if wicketkeeping helped him gauge the surface, the batter said, “It always gives an indication but doesn’t make it easier.”
Earlier, during the toss, Proteas’ skipper Temba Bavuma said that Quinton de Kock has sustained a hand injury. In De Kock’s place, the visiting team roped in Klaasen and the decision paid rich dividends.
Klaasen then detailed the circumstances that led to his selection in the playing eleven.
“Quinny (Quinton de Kock) came up to me two days back in the team bus and said he injured his wrists. I thought he is a strong character and he will be fine. But yesterday again he said his hand is not fine. Yesterday morning, we came to training and the coach told me I might play,” he said.
The third T20I of the series is scheduled for Tuesday at the Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.
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