Heinrich Klaasen ecstatic with his batting exploits against India

image-l8xi75w3Heinrich Klaasen (PC: Twitter)

Heinrich Klaasen was the man in focus as South Africa recorded a nine-run victory in the first One Day International of the three-match series. Temba Bavuma’s side has taken a lead by 1-0 and will be hoping to continue the exploits both with the bat and ball.

The Proteas walked into the 50-over format as the underdogs. However, it was Klaasen who ensured a victory for his team. Losing the toss, the visitors were put to bat first. Quinton de Kock looked in good rhythm, but the other three players, including Janeman Malan, Bavuma, and Aiden Markram, failed to make an impact.

Klaasen walked in the middle when the team was reeling at 71-3 in 15.6 overs. The batter oozed confidence right from the first ball. The 39- run partnership between him and De Kock helped the Proteas in gaining momentum in a rain-curtailed match. De Kock lost his wicket after scoring 48 runs.

The batter speaks about the difficult playing conditions

However, South Africa had nothing to worry about as what followed after that was a sensational performance by Klaasen and David Miller. Miller essayed the role of a perfect partner for Klaasen as the two stitched an unbeaten partnership of 139 runs. The two players steered the team to a score of 249 runs in 40 overs.

Miller hammered 75* runs off 63 balls. Meanwhile, Klaasen won the player of the match award for his knock of 65-ball 75. He hit six boundaries and two sixes while playing in Lucknow. The batter seemed extremely pleased with his performance. The playing conditions were not easy as when he came to bat, the ball was spinning and moving quite a bit.

Reflecting on his performance during the post-match presentation, the 31-year-old said,

"The ball was moving quite a bit. When I came in, the ball was spinning as well. But we have worked hard in the nets. I enjoy playing against India and hope it continues this way. Looking forward to the remaining game in this series."

The Indian batters also looked uncomfortable on the pitch as it was only Sanju Samson who showed some good cricket with a knock of 63-ball 86.

Also Read: Samson's heroics forced to take a backseat as Miller, Klaasen stun the Blues