NEW DELHI: Explosive South African batter Heinrich Klaasen, who has been in phenomenal form in white-ball cricket this year, opened up about the significant influence former Proteas dynamo AB de Villiers had on his career.
In what can only be described as a standout year for Klaasen, the numbers speak for themselves. In the ten One Day Internationals (ODIs) he has played for South Africa this year, Klaasen has amassed an impressive 521 runs in nine innings, boasting an astounding average of 65.12 and a strike rate exceeding 155. His performances include two centuries and a fifty, with his highest score being a breathtaking 174.
Klaasen's true potential was on full display in the fourth ODI against Australia, where he single-handedly powered his side to a commanding total of 416/5. His explosive knock of 174 came off just 83 balls, featuring a stunning array of 13 fours and an equal number of sixes. The result was a resounding victory for South Africa, with Australia falling short by a massive 164 runs.
In an interview with ESPNcricinfo, Klaasen reflected on the influence of his role model, the legendary AB de Villiers.
"You look up to some role models and you want to be like them - like AB de Villiers. You want to play all the shots, but the genius behind guys like AB was knowing when to play them. For me, I explored a lot with it and it didn't work. It was about maturing into my game and knowing my options," Klaasen explained.
Klaasen also delved into the changes he had to make in his game after being dropped from the team in 2021.
"What's changed in my career is that I am playing every ball as it is and for me to stay in that mindset. I don't recap what I have done the previous ball or think of what I might do the next ball," he said.
Klaasen said that his coaches advised him to simplify his approach, saying, "You are using too many options. Let's limit yourself."
Klaasen now focuses on building a solid platform before reacting to each ball, allowing his instincts to guide him.
"It took me a couple of months to get back to my best, and a lot of hard work," Klaasen emphasised.
Fans can expect to see Klaasen back in action when South Africa take on Australia in the ODI series decider on Sunday, where he will aim to continue his scintillating form and make a lasting impact on the game.
(With inputs from ANI)
