Bracewell delight at Klinger Big Bash Runs
21 January 2013
New Gloucestershire captain Michael Klinger completed the Big Bash T20 tournament in Australia with a healthy batting average of 34.57 from eight matches.
That was despite scores of one and nought in his final two appearances for Adelaide Strikers. Up to then Michael had been one of the stars of the competition with three half-centuries opening the innings.
His competition best was 71 not out against Hobart Hurricanes, made off just 61 balls, with 8 fours. He also hit 60 against Sydney Thunder and 53 against Sydney Sixers.
Overall, Michael had a strike rate of 117.67, hitting 24 fours and two sixes, and his performances offered evidence that he will be a dangerous performer for Gloucestershire in T20 this summer.
The club’s Director of Cricket John Bracewell told this website: “It’s a pity that Adelaide fell over at the last hurdle against Perth and didn’t make the final, but Michael put in some solid displays.
“His ability to bat for most of the innings was evident in more than one match. We knew he was extremely competent in all three formats of the game and his T20 skills were clear to see.
“I also noticed watching some of the Adelaide fixtures that he spent a lot of time talking to the bowlers, even though he is no longer skipper.
“He obviously is a natural leader and some one team-mates turn to at crunch moments.”
Michael has batted at the top of the order and at number three for his Australian clubs, but John has little doubt where he will be most effective for Gloucestershire.
“I’m keen for him to open in all forms of cricket,” he said. “With his leadership qualities, he can take guard and lead from the front.”
Look out for a long and exclusive interview with Michael only on this website in the near future.
