Once a fast bowler who could be relied on for a few runs in the lower order, Klusener has transformed himself into a batting all-rounder of real quality.

Has three Test hundreds to his credit, including a magnificent 174 against England, and remains arguably the best ball-striker in the world in one-day cricket.

But, although still a fixture in the Test side, his is the position which is now brought into question when South Africa perform badly.

Since undergoing knee surgery on a cartilage problem at the beginning of 2001, he has been unable to bowl at his former pace and has relied increasingly on the off-cutter to take wickets.

His value in one-day cricket is not in doubt, but his Test place looks likely to remain in question.