Heinrich Klaasen rejects ‘second-string’ side tag ahead of Pakistan T20Is

South Africa’s interim T20I captain Heinrich Klaasen has brushed aside the notion that a second-string side will be taking the field against Pakistan in the upcoming series.

The T20 matches will feature very few of Proteas’ top players in the format, with the likes of Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Anrich Nortje all going back home after the two-match Test series.

The squad will instead be captained for the first time by Klaasen, with uncapped seamer Okuhle Cele, wicketkeeper Ryan Rickleton and batsman Jacques Snyman all part of the contingent.

“We are by no means a second string side. Yes we do have a couple of guys missing but the way we are playing during Covid, guys need rest as well and this also gives other players an opportunity to showcase their skills. They deserve it, they have been doing well for couple of years now and so we are definitely looking to win the three-game [T20I] series. We are going to play to the best of our ability,” said Klaasen during a virtual press conference.

ALSO READ: ‘Electricity is temporary, generator is permanent’: Shadab Khan lauds Hasan Ali

Klaasen is also eager to get back on the field after missing quite a few games due to Covid-19.

“It’s been a different season for me. I think I have played four game so far which is very frustrating. I have finally recovered now, Covid hit me quite hard. It has been a tough few months, since I have tested positive. I have been working hard, it’s difficult to tell you about my form but I will guess we will know after the series. I’m looking forward to it,” he said.

The two sides will feature in a three-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium on February 11, 13 and 14.