The Hindu : Klusener still has a lot to offer: Pollock

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Jun 13, 2003

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Sport - Cricket

Klusener still has a lot to offer: Pollock

Durban June 12. Former South African skipper Shaun Pollock joined the debate about the controversial omission of Lance Klusener, hoping the allrounder will return to play for his country again.

``I hope that he returns to play for his country again,'' Pollock was quoted as saying by The Cape Argus newspaper on Wednesday.

Pollock said he was convinced Klusener ``still had a lot to offer to South African cricket.

``Lance has always performed at his best when we've had our backs to the wall. I hope his present situation will bring the best out of him and that he will return to play for his country again. He is a match-winner, and I believe he has a lot left in his armoury,'' Pollock said.

Pollock's words contradict that of new captain Graeme Smith, who said that Klusener was ``disruptive'' and could ``only cause hassles.''

Klusener was controversially left out of the South African team that leaves on Sunday for a tour of England for a one-day and Test series.

South Africa's last visit to England was during the 1999 World Cup when Klusener emerged as one of the best hitters in the game and won the player of the tournament award.

``It was because of him that we got to the semifinals,'' said Bob Woolmer, who coached the team then.

The debate regarding Klusener's omission was back on the burner following the new skipper's criticism two weeks back. Woolmer entered the fray, accusing Smith of having the ``temerity'' to criticise Klusener.

But despite his difference of opinion with Smith, Pollock promised his support to Smith.

``Graeme's got to try and do things his own way, particularly at the start of his captaincy, so he needs plenty of room. But I will offer help where it's needed,'' he said.

Meanwhile, Boeta Dippenaar will replace Neil McKenzie in South Africa's one-day team. McKenzie withdrew with a back injury.

Dippenaar was originally selected only for the Test team. Dippenaar and McKenzie will remain part of the Test team. — PTI

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