Full Name: Heinrich Klaasen Date of Birth: July 30, 1991 Birthplace: Pretoria, South Africa Role: Right-Handed Batter | Wicketkeeper | Middle-Order Enforcer Heinrich Klaasen is the embodiment of South Africa’s new-age, fearless cricket—explosive, inventive, and unafraid of pressure. Known for his brute power, unorthodox strokes, and ability to dominate spin, Klaasen has become one of the most dangerous white-ball batters in the world today. Born in Pretoria, Klaasen played his early cricket at Menlopark High School, where he excelled not only as a batter but also as a wicketkeeper. He spent years honing his game in domestic cricket for Titans, where his maturity and aggression began to turn heads. His international debut came in 2018, during a home series against India, and he made an instant impact with match-winning innings against the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal. But Klaasen's real breakthrough came during the 2020–2023 cycle, when he elevated his game to another level. He began producing consistent performances against quality bowling attacks, most notably in ODIs and T20Is. In 2023, he delivered one of the finest modern-day ODI knocks—174 off 83 balls against Australia—an innings that stamped his name as a next-gen Proteas powerhouse. Career highlights include: - Over 1,700 ODI runs at a remarkable strike rate above 110 - Nearly 1,300 T20I runs, often batting in the toughest overs - Career-best 174 (83) in ODIs – one of the fastest centuries by a South African - Regular IPL stints with Sunrisers Hyderabad, RCB, and others - Star performer in SA20, helping Durban’s Super Giants and leading with maturity Behind the stumps, Klaasen is sharp and reliable, although he often plays as a specialist batter due to team combinations. What separates him is his clarity under pressure. Whether facing express pace or crafty spin, he backs his game plan and has the strength and skill to clear any boundary with ease. Off the field, Klaasen is quiet, focused, and humble—a player who’s worked his way up the hard way. He’s admired for his work ethic, calm demeanor, and ability to stay grounded even when the world lauds his heroics. With jersey number 45, Heinrich Klaasen stands as the Proteas’ brutal middle-order hammer—a finisher, a fighter, and a symbol of South Africa’s rising firepower.