Wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen is acutely aware of an inferior position in the Proteas’ pecking order, despite striking a match-winning innings in the first ODI against Zimbabwe at the Diamond Oval in Kimberley last week.

Klaasen is effectively South Africa’s second-choice wicketkeeper-batsman, with the talented Quinton de Kock rested for this three-match series.

Sunday’s solid 44 from as many deliveries afforded the hosts a five-wicket victory. It featured five fours and two sixes and, with positions in the squad for next year’s World Cup in the United Kingdom consistently contemplated, afforded the selectors more food for thought.

‘I am still under pressure of securing a spot in this team so, for me, every game I play in I need to do well,’ said Klaasen.

‘If I get three opportunities now and I fail three times, that’s my chance gone. I think it adds a bit more pressure on me, but I enjoy it.’

The 27-year-old Klaasen has also been named in the squad for three T20Is against the Zimbabweans later this month. However, De Kock has too. Warriors wicketkeeper-batsman Matthew Breetzke is also travelling the country with the Proteas, but as a non-playing member. Opener Aiden Markram and all-rounder Wiaan Mulder enjoyed similar experiences before graduating to the playing XIs.

Klaasen was named in the squad for the Test series against Australia earlier this year, but didn’t play a match.

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