Klinger in line for Aussie selection

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN opener Michael Klinger is continuing to knock on the door of national selectors, starring for the Redbacks in the Ryobi One Day Cup series.

Following the 33-year-old’s successful stint in England – in which he hit more than 2100 runs in all formats – Klinger is now the highest run-scorer in the domestic one-day competition.

He’s already amassed more than 360 runs for the Redbacks, highlighted by a stellar unbeaten 140 against Tasmania.

“I was lucky enough to play over in England and because of that I’ve come back in really good shape,” Klinger told The AJN.

“Being able to experience conditions around the world, I think as a batsman, you get better and better as you go and I’m certainly feeling pretty fit.”

Despite the Redbacks recording just one victory over Western Australia, Klinger has been in blistering form, notching up a century and two half-centuries to establish an average of 90.25.

“Unfortunately the team won’t be playing in the finals,” he said.

“But personally, it’s been good to continue my form from England and it’s also good to keep up my one-day form from the past five to six years.”

Coach of Australia’s Test team Darren Lehman praised Klinger for his impeccable batting displays and said age will be no barrier when he selects the team for the upcoming Ashes series.

“Michael has started the season off extremely well,” Lehman said on Channel Nine’s coverage of the game.

“It’s very much about form, not so much about age. So we’ll pick guys who are playing well no matter how old they are.”

With the first Ashes test less than two months away, Klinger is confident that if he keeps getting runs in the domestic competitions, he’ll be a strong contender to make the squad.

“It’s positive to hear the Australian coach praise you,” Klinger said.

“If you’ve got ambitions to play for Australia, which I certainly do, making early runs in the season is vital.

“I’ve just got to keep getting runs on the board consistently, and hopefully my name keeps coming up in discussion.”

ASHLEY SHENKER

Photo: SACA

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