Wednesday, February 23, 2011

South Africa handed Kallis boost

Jacques Kallis has recovered from his rib injury sustained against India in the recent one-day series and the all-rounder will line-up in his country's opening game of this year's World Cup. The 35-year old had been facing a real fitness race since sustaining his injury and his return will be a major boost to his side's chances of picking up their first World Cup trophy.

The experienced all-rounder had been restricted to a role as a batsman during the warm-up matches against Australia and Zimbabwe but should be able to bowl against the West Indies. Kallis confirmed his return to fitness and also made it clear that while the West Indies mustn't be underestimated South Africa are in good form going into the match, even if the cricket betting odds do make his side strong favourites.

"Everything has gone according to plan, I am 100 percent fit for the match," he said.
"They are a dangerous side. They have a few players who can change the game on their day. We have been on top of them recently and played some good cricket."

Having the world's best one-day all-rounder in their side will boost the South African's chances of challenging for this year's title. Kallis has racked up 11,002 ODI runs in his career to date at an average of 45, while taking 259 wickets in the 307 one-day appearances of his illustrious career to date.

At 35, this could well be Kallis' last chance of winning a World Cup and the talented all-rounder will be a crucial cog in the South African's machine.

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