DSG bring in Buttler, Narine retain Klaasen, Ahmad
Durban's Super Giants have announced their retained players and some new players ahead of the Betway SA20 auction coming up on 9 September.
All squads have been put in a position where they have to make the big decisions on which players to retain pre-auction and DSG went with big hitter Heinrich Klaasen and spinner Noor Ahmad.
The pair were influential players for DSG last season despite the Durban side finishing bottom of the table.
After being retained by the franchise as the Wild Card pick, Klaasen says he's looking forward to wearing the blue once again.
“I’m incredibly honoured to be retained by DSG, especially as a wild card," Klaasen said. "The support from the fans, the management, and the entire Super Giants family has been exceptional. I can’t wait to put on the DSG colours again and deliver for this franchise.”
Ahmad, who finished the competition last year with 13 wickets from ten matches, was one of the top bowlers in the tournament and he feels that he's at home with DSG.
“This is more than a team for me," Ahmad said. "The belief this franchise has shown in me from day one is what convinced me to commit long-term. The fans, the franchise, the freedom I get here — it all feels right. Signing this deal wasn’t just about cricket, it was about belonging.”
Along with the retention of Ahmad and Klaasen, DSG will welcome England star Jos Buttler and West Indian T20 star Sunil Narine to the DSG family.
Buttler spent his first three seasons with the Paarl Royals and will shift up the coast to Durban. A challenge and experience he is looking forward to.
“Playing in South Africa has always been special for me and I look forward to contributing to a team that is bold and ambitious. I‘ve had a great chat with Dr Sanjiv Goenka and can’t wait to get stuck in with DSG.”
Narine, who is a seasoned T20 cricketer, will play in the SA20 for the first time this upcoming season.
“I’m really excited to start a new chapter with DSG later this year. It’s my first time playing in the SA20, and I’m looking forward to the unique challenges it will present and the passionate crowds.
"Being invited to be part of the Super Giants family is an opportunity I value. I’ve heard great things about Mr Goenka’s vision and the setup so it will be privileged to be part of it and look to contribute to the team’s success.”
Speaking on the retentions and aquisitions, DSG coach Lance Klusener is happy with how the squad is beginning to come together.
“We are thrilled to continue our journey with Klaasen and Noor — both of whom have been phenomenal for DSG. Klaasen’s firepower and calmness under pressure, along with Noor’s wizardry with the ball, give us a dynamic edge," Klusener said. "Jos and Sunil bring leadership, experience, and match-winning ability that every team dreams of. We’re building a well-rounded squad that can adapt and dominate."
