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Kolpak players add value to South Africa cricket, says Test skipper Dean Elgar



image-l6m59mvkDean Elgar will lead South Africa

South African cricket suffered greatly due to Kolpak's ruling when several players signed contracts and went away to represent the English County sides.

It was only recently in 2020 that the Kolpak ended, which enabled cricketers to be in reckoning for the South African national side again.

Ahead of their four-day practice game against the England Lions, Test skipper Dean Elgar, spoke about how Kolpak players can add depth and become assets to South Africa.

“They are experienced cricketers, vastly experienced in county cricket. The numbers they have put out over the last few years is something we can use to our advantage.”


Impact of Kolpak returnees on the South Africa team

Former players who signed Kolpak deals, Rilee Rossouw, Duane Oliver, and Simon Harmer were recalled into the national setup and have managed to make their mark on their international returns.

Rossouw shined with the bat in the recently concluded T20I series against England, scoring 131 runs at an average of 65.50.

Harmer, who won the County Championship with Essex, picked up 13 wickets against Bangladesh at home earlier this year.

The spinner is also the highest wicket-taker this County season and could potentially partner Keshav Maharaj in the Test series against England, starting next week.

Oliver made this return in series against India, which South Africa ended up winning after losing the first Test at Centurion.

"They have played here for so long and it would be stupid if we don’t use them, even if they don’t play. They are great for the change-room, just from an information point of view.

“Having guys playing county cricket and having them do pretty well is a massive asset going into this Test series.”


The Elgar-led South African side will take on Ben Stokes-captained England in the Three-match Test series, starting August 17 at Lord's.

The visitors are currently 99 for 2 at Lunch on Day 1 after electing to bat first against the Sam Billings-led Lions in a one-off game. 


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