Share

Kuhn's long wait for another Proteas shot

Cape Town - Heino Kuhn last represented South Africa all the way back in 2011 when the Proteas beat Australia in a T20I in Johannesburg. 

He made just 3 that day, coming in at No 7, and it would prove to be he last of his 5 T20Is. 

Now, over five years later, Kuhn is back on the international stage. 

He probably won't be given the wicketkeeping duties this time - Mangaliso Mosehle is also in the squad - and Kuhn will hope that he comes in further up the order when South Africa take on Sri Lanka in the first T20I at Centurion on Friday. 

"Russell (Domingo, coach) has asked me what I prefer and I've always been an opening batter," Kuhn told press in Pretoria on Wednesday.

"But this season I've batted No 4, which I've enjoyed. I've enjoyed being in the middle overs and running hard. I actually don't have a preference. Wherever they want me to slot in, I'll slot in wherever."

Now 32-years-old, Kuhn's domestic form for the Titans this year has thrown him back into the mix in a Proteas squad that is missing all of its biggest names for the first two matches of the series.

"It's a great feeling. I think every time you get the opportunity to play for your country it's an amazing feeling," said Kuhn.

"It's what every guy in South Africa strives for; if you do well to get higher honours. I know there are a lot of guys sitting out but still, we've got a lot of experience in guys like David Miller and Fudgie and Imran (Tahir).

"This is my 11th year of playing franchise cricket. I've got a lot to give, experience-wise. It's nice to have Fudgie as captain. We spend a lot of time together in the middle and learn from each other.

"I don't see myself as being a veteran ... juts a cricket player who has performed as is getting recognition."

Kuhn added that he sees himself finishing his career in South Africa.

"I'm very happy just playing for South Africa and finishing my career in South Africa. So I don't think there's any chance of me doing the Kolpak thing," he said.

"I'm happy to just stay here and perform with my franchise and country and call it quits ... in about 5-10 years time.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE