Lance Klusener’s chances of forcing his way back into the South African cricket side were boosted significantly on Tuesday when one of his main detractors, national skipper Graeme Smith, offered him an olive branch.
Smith, who left a message on Klusener’s phone on Tuesday, said that he would have no objection ”whatsoever” should the selectors recall the allrounder for the upcoming West Indies series.
Klusener, having been dropped from the side following the post-World Cup purge, was then labelled by the new captain as disruptive.
”We’ve both said things about each other,” admitted Smith, ”and some of it’s probably been blown up a bit.
”But hopefully he’ll get back to me today and I’ll find out what he has to say. For the good of South African cricket, we both have to be man enough to deal with this issue.
”If Lance gets the chance again, I’m sure he’ll perform.”
National coach Eric Simons also phoned Klusener recently to ”congratulate” him on his recent performances with the ball.
Simons, too, stressed that he would ”have no problem” with Klusener being in the side.
Klusener will skipper the Nicky Oppenheimer XI against the Windies in the traditional tour opener in Randjesfontein on Wednesday.
He was given the job despite, or perhaps because of, a Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration case he launched against the United Cricket Board of South Africa.
Klusener feels that he was led to understand that he would be given a new contract after the World Cup. He was not and decided to take legal recourse.
The outcome of the case will have major ramifications for all sporting codes in this country.
On the field itself, Klusener has furthered his case by responding magnificently to Smith’s challenge to local bowlers to force selectors to take notice of their credentials.
The call was issued after the deficiencies of the South African attack were once again highlighted in both England and Pakistan.
In response, Klusener has dispensed with his gentle off-cutters and has resumed bowling from a full-length run-up.
The result has been spectacular. His genuine pace has made him the leading wicket taker in the Supersport Series this summer. — Sapa