Klaasen has been in exceptional form, scoring half-centuries in his last five matches, including the ongoing Champions Trophy
03 March, 2025
PHOTO: AP
South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen has set a big goal for himself ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final.
Klaasen has been in exceptional form, scoring half-centuries in his last five matches, including the ongoing Champions Trophy. In South Africa's final group match against England, Klaasen played a brilliant knock of 64 runs off 56 balls, securing a crucial win for the Proteas and ensuring their spot in the semi-final.
Currently ranked 4th in the ICC ODI rankings, Klaasen shared his thoughts with the media, revealing that he had set himself a challenge with head coach Rob Walter before the tournament.
"I want to become the best cricketer in the world, and my journey is heading in that direction," he said.
"I knew I could handle the pressure and the situation well," he added.
Klaasen expressed pride in his performance, saying, “I play my shots with full intent on the ground, and I did the same in the match against England. I’m very happy with my innings."
South Africa kicked off their Champions Trophy campaign with a win over Afghanistan, followed by a washed-out match against Australia in Rawalpindi, which resulted in a draw, earning them just one point. They then defeated England in their last group-stage match. With two wins and one draw, South Africa finished at the top of their group with 5 points. In the semi-final, they will face New Zealand, who finished second in the other group.
