Head coach Gary Kirsten has all but banked on significant contributions from all-rounder Andile Phehlukwayo during the Durban Heat’s 2019 Mzansi Super League campaign.

Phehlukwayo was part of the Proteas’ squad for the World Cup in England and Wales earlier this year – and recently returned from a stint with the Vancouver Knights in the Global T20 Canada. Last week, he played for the eThekwini Hurricanes in the Dolphins Premier League.

‘I have watched Andile playing for the Proteas and what has struck me is that he is a big game player. He has good skills and can contribute equally with both bat and ball, which makes him an important part of the side,’ said Kirsten.

‘In T20 cricket you have to be able to cover all of your bases and he does that. With that said you need to cover them well and I think that when you have your match-ups against the opposition he will match up well.’

Phehlukwayo has replaced batsman Hashim Amla as the Heat’s local marquee player. England’s Alex Hales, meanwhile, has taken the mantle of international marquee player from Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan.

‘Alex comes to us highly recommended by some of my contacts in the UK. We are really happy to have him on board at the Durban Heat and we know that he is another big match player,’ added Kirsten.

‘He will be a crucial component of our squad for the competition and we look forward to having him with us.’

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