Heinrich Klaasen expresses frustration over South Africa's limited match schedule

South Africa's middle-order batter, Heinrich Klaasen, has spoken out about his frustration with the limited number of matches South Africa plays in bilateral series. Klaasen, who has retired from Test cricket but continues to play in shorter formats, believes his team should be playing more games to stay competitive and build momentum.

After South Africa's 11-run loss to India in the third T20I, Klaasen expressed disappointment with the lack of opportunities. "How nice would it be if we win on Friday, and then we have another game on Sunday, going into it two-all?" he said, highlighting how rare it is for South Africa to play extended series.

Klaasen's concerns extend beyond T20s. He criticized the South African Test team's limited schedule, pointing out that they often play only two-Test series, which he described as "ridiculous" and "disappointing." "Our Test team is playing two-Test series, which is ridiculous in my eyes," Klaasen said. "It's annoying. We want to play more cricket against these guys, and against the other countries as well."

South Africa's cricket calendar has been limited, with most series restricted to just three matches. In contrast, countries like India have more regular, longer series. Klaasen pointed out that India recently played a five-match T20I series and are scheduled for a busy Test schedule. "You see India are playing this Friday and next Friday, which is incredible, on two different sides of the world," he noted.

While South Africa has players specializing in either red-ball or white-ball cricket, the lack of longer series has limited the team's exposure to different conditions and opponents. Klaasen expressed hope that the South African board will prioritize more international games in the future, especially considering the country’s competitive standing in formats like the ICC World Test Championship.

Klaasen also gave support to his captain, Aiden Markram, who has struggled in recent T20Is. Klaasen understood Markram’s frustration, saying, “If I put your career, as whatever job anyone does, on the table, and I said, ‘if you make one mistake, and that’s the end,’ you will be frustrated if you make a mistake.” Klaasen reassured Markram that his recent form struggles were part of the game, offering his full support.

Despite a lean run in 2024, Klaasen remains focused on his game. He has played in 55 T20 matches this year, with a high strike rate, and is eager to find form again. “It’s been a long year, a tough year, and it was still a fantastic year for me,” he said.