I am not out to prove anyone wrong: Kallis by CricketArchive Staff Reporter

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Player:	JH Kallis
Event:	ICC World Twenty20 2009

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DateLine: 5th June 2009

 

South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis said he is not out to prove anyone wrong as the he prepares for his first ICC World Twenty20.

 

The classy player was controversially omitted from the squad for the inaugural tournament two years ago following the alleged intervention of Norman Arendse, who was then president of Cricket South Africa.

 

But Kallis has had a brilliant IPL campaign where he finished top-scorer for his franchisee Bangalore Royal Challengers and also helped them finish second in the tournament. He is now relishing his role at the top of the South Africa order.

 

Kallis also warmed up well with a quickfire 57 from 40 deliveries against Ireland at Southgate as South Africa cruised to a 30-run victory.

 

When asked about his omission from the squad in 2007, Kallis said that was a totally different issue and he is not out on the ground to prove a point to someone.

 

"That was the Norman Arendse issue that was a totally separate issue. I still don't go out to play this game to prove anyone wrong. I never will.

 

"I play this game for the challenge and Twenty20 cricket has brought a new challenge for me and it is certainly something I am really enjoying.

 

"I have enjoyed it at the top of the order," said Kallis.

 

"I have worked hard on my Twenty20 cricket over the last year with Micky Arthur and Duncan Fletcher and I had a really good IPL so I come into the tournament pretty confident.

 

"The IPL was a big learning curve and I was pleased not only to contribute with the bat but also the ball as well.

 

"I have thoroughly enjoyed it, especially in the IPL where I played with a lot more freedom than I have been allowed."

 

Kallis warned that the Proteans would be all out hungry to win the title though he did not predict any winner.

 

"The guys are fresh and hungry and looking forward to it. They really want to end a successful season with this World Cup," he said.