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Heinrich Klaasen's Iconic Record-Breaking Feats In International Cricket

Soumyajit Dutta

Heinrich Klaasen [Source: @CSKlassen8467/X]Heinrich Klaasen [Source: @CSKlassen8467/X]

The cricketing world reels from Heinrich Klaasen's sudden retirement announcement, an unexpected curtain call for one of South Africa's most explosive modern batters. While his decision, driven by personal and family priorities, leaves a gaping hole in the Proteas' middle order, it compels reflection on the remarkable impact he leaves. 

Emerging onto the scene with a bang against India's famed wrist-spin duo in 2018, Klaasen quickly established himself as a rare breed. As we process his departure, here are the key records that define Heinrich Klaasen's unforgettable international career.

1. Most Runs In An ODI Innings By Batting Position

Heinrich Klaasen holds the record for the highest individual score in One-Day Internationals by a batter at No. 5. The South African wicketkeeper-batter smashed a breathtaking 174 off just 83 balls against Australia in Centurion on 15 September 2023. 

His explosive knock, which included 13 fours and 13 sixes at a staggering strike rate of 209.63, surpassed previous iconic innings by the likes of AB de Villiers and Andrew Symonds.

2. 4th Highest Career Strike Rate in ODIs 

Heinrich Klaasen ranks fourth on the all-time list for the highest career strike rates in One-Day Internationals. Scoring 2,141 runs in 60 ODIs at a blazing strike rate of 117.05, Klaasen trails only Andre Russell (130.22), Glenn Maxwell (126.70), and Lionel Cann (117.06). 

3. 200 Runs and 10 Wicketkeeping Dismissals In an ODI Series

Heinrich Klaasen etched his name alongside ODI greats by achieving a rare double, scoring over 200 runs and completing 10 wicketkeeping dismissals in a single series. This feat places him among legends like Adam Gilchrist, Alec Stewart, and Moin Khan, who also hit that milestone during iconic multi-nation tournaments. 

4. 2nd South African With Most Sixes In an ODI Innings

Heinrich Klaasen smashed 13 sixes during his explosive knock of 174 against Australia in Centurion on 15 September 2023, placing him 10th on the all-time list for most sixes in a single ODI innings. 

The South African batter joined elite company that includes names like Eoin Morgan (17 sixes), Rohit Sharma, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle. Klaasen’s blitzkrieg innings came off just 83 balls at a strike rate of 209.63.

5. Fifth Highest Partnership For 5th Wicket In ODI

Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller stitched together a remarkable 222-run partnership for the fifth wicket against Australia in Centurion on 15 September 2023, marking the fifth-highest stand for the position in ODI history. 

The duo came together at a tricky stage and launched a brutal counterattack, rescuing South Africa from a mid-innings collapse. Klaasen’s aggressive 174 off 83 balls and Miller’s composed support powered the Proteas to a commanding position.