Andrew Puttick revealed his frustration at not being picked for the Proteas, despite a fantastic season for the Cape Cobras.

Puttick might not be getting any younger at the age of 34, but this past season was arguably his best for the Cape Cobras. His love of the game and pride in his performances will keep him going despite constantly missing out on national selection.

‘I really feel I should be opening the batting for South Africa in Tests, as I have the best numbers for opening in the country. It is frustrating, but what can one do,’ said Puttick.

Puttick slammed 650 runs in the Momentum One Day Cup competition in the 2014-15-season, and also blasted two Sunfoil Series-centuries in a match against the Chevrolet Warriors.

The stylish left-hander has struck 24 first-class centuries in his 149 games at an average of 41.44.

‘I have also averaged more than 50 while playing for South Africa A,’ he added.

Yet, despite the fact that Puttick feels his performances have not attracted enough attention from the South African selectors, he does not intend to slow down and announce his retirement anytime soon.

‘I take personal pride in my performances and want to do as well as I can. I love the game,’ Puttick said.

Longevity has been a hallmark of Puttick’s career, as he started his first-class career for Western Province in 2000-01 as an opening partner of Graeme Smith, who only had to wait until 2002 before he made his Test debut.

He made his ODI debut against New Zealand in October 2005 as a last-minute replacement. He failed to get off the mark and hasn’t played since.

Puttick said his beloved surfing has had to take a proverbial back seat in the off-season. His marriage, and his fulltime involvement with the company Sun Armour as business partner of Dane Vilas and the former Cobras opening batsman Alistair Gray has become more important to the popular Puttick.

Asked about possible selection for the Proteas, Puttick said: ‘It is difficult to keep the hope up, but I would still love to open the batting for South Africa.’

Cobras teammate Stiaan van Zyl opened the batting for the Proteas in the first Test against Bangladesh and made 34, before the Proteas were bowled out for a disappointing 248.

Source: Cape Cobras