South African Star Klaasen Speaks on T20 Inspirations and Unforgettable Moments

Heinrich Klaasen, South Africa's power-hitting cricketer, shares insights on his T20 journey, memorable innings, and players he admires. He reveals his admiration for Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah, his favorite shots, and amusing off-field anecdotes. Klaasen also names personalities who inspire him beyond cricket.

South African cricketer Heinrich Klaasen has confessed to being hesitant about attempting shots akin to those of India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav. During a conversation on JioCinema's Q20s show, Klaasen delved into his views on T20 cricket, his unforgettable innings, and his personal favorites.

Klaasen, renowned for his 'explosive' style of batting, described his pick-up pull shot as his signature move, and dubbed Jasprit Bumrah as the most challenging bowler to face in the T20 arena. When quizzed about a shot he'd like to borrow, Klaasen mentioned a hybrid of AB de Villiers' scoop and Suryakumar Yadav's technique, praising their finesse in hitting fine leg off straight balls.

Reflecting on his illustrious T20 career, Klaasen recounted his standout performances against India, highlighting his 81-run knock in 2022 as his favorite due to the challenging conditions. Humorous off-field anecdotes included naming Yuzvendra Chahal as the funniest international cricketer he's played with and sharing his fondness for butter chicken. Klaasen also revealed admiration for Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton, wishing to emulate his driving prowess.

Furthermore, Klaasen suggested that Nicholas Pooran has the potential to score a double century in T20 cricket. When posed with the hypothetical of trusting someone to bat for his life, he confidently picked Hashim Amla. The interview concluded with Klaasen expressing his desire to master Suryakumar Yadav's 'Supla Shot' over fine leg, albeit with some reluctance due to the technique involved.

(With inputs from agencies.)