Wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen has targeted a return to the Proteas Test XI via plenty of runs for the Titans in domestic cricket.

Klaasen welcomed a Test debut against India earlier this year, but has not been included in the squad for the first half of the Proteas’ four-Test series against England.

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He had previously replaced the injured Rudi Second, who has since recovered to deputise for first-choice wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock in the squad.

‘It has not been a great week for me, but that’s part of the job,’ said Klaasen, who captained the Tshwane Spartans in the recent Mzansi Super League. The Spartans lost the final to the Paarl Rocks.

‘I need to go back and perform, that’s the only way to get back into a strong Test squad like we have now.

‘That’s the biggest passion I have, I want to play Test cricket and that’s the only way to play by putting on that baggy green cap.

“I have to go back, there’s a lot of work that I have to do and just get the numbers on the board.’

The talented right-hander was named in the Titans XI for this week’s 4-Day Domestic Series fixture against the Lions at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. Proteas opening batsman Aiden Markram was also named in the visiting XI.

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