VAN DER DUSSEN GETS HIS CHANCE
RASSIE VAN der Dussen’s versatility has played a large part in the Highveld Lions batsman’s maiden call-up to the Proteas ODI squad, according to national convener of selectors Linda Zondi.
Van der Dussen is the only uncapped player in the 15-man squad for the first two matches against Pakistan. There was also a recall for Cape Cobras paceman Dane Paterson.
The Highveld Lions batsman has certainly knocked the Proteas’ door down through an avalanche of runs with the 29-year-old having been prolific across formats the last 12 months. Not only did he top the run-scorers’ list in last season’s Sunfoil Series, but he also bludgeoned 469 runs at a strike rate of 138.75 to power the Jozi Stars to the inaugural Mzansi Super League title.
And to further press home his claim for inclusion in the ODI squad, Van der Dussen stroked a half-century on his T20I debut for the Proteas last season.
Importantly, though, Van der Dussen can cover a range of positions in the batting order, particularly with JP Duminy still recovering from his shoulder injury.
“We need to look at all the options available to us as we get closer to selecting our final squad for this year’s World Cup,” Zondi said.
“Rassie and Dane are two players who have been knocking strongly on the door in all formats.
“Van der Dussen is one of those players who gives us more options because he can bat No 3, No 4 or No 5,” Zondi said.
With Lungi Ngidi still undergoing rehabilitation for an injury sustained on the Australian tour, there is an opportunity for Paterson to stake a claim for a World Cup place too.
The Cape Cobras paceman was part of the Test squad already this summer due to him picking up 33 wickets in just six matches at an average of 22.75 in the 4-Day Franchise competition.
“I’m really happy to have got the callup,” Paterson told Independent Media at a Cape Cobras training session yesterday morning. “It’s a World Cup year and everyone wants to play in a World Cup.
“So, to get the call at such a crucial time of the season means the selectors are still looking at me. And hopefully if I get an opportunity, I can put in a performance that gives everyone something to think about.
“Look at ‘Doozle’ (Duanne Oliver), he has come into the Test side and really taken his chance, so anything can happen once you get a chance. Like I said, every player wants to play in a World Cup.”
Proteas Test opener Aiden Markram, Farhaan Behardien and Chris Morris are the casualties from the series-winning squad in Australia due to Hashim Amla also returning from injury.