Star Warriors recruit Michael Klinger can expect some chin music to come his way when he lines up against his former side South Australia in next week’s Sheffield Shield clash at Glenelg Oval.
Klinger put his former Redbacks teammates to the sword last week, scoring 190 and 51 not out in WA’s crushing eight-wicket Shield victory at the WACA Ground.
The Redbacks have been working feverishly on plans to bring down Klinger ahead of next week’s return clash, and the short ball looms as a viable option.
“I think the short ball worked in the second innings,” Redbacks skipper Travis Head said.
“That might be something we go to.
“I don’t think we will do it early. First we will aim it at the top of off to try to nick him off early.
“But if that doesn’t work, we’re going to have to come up with some pretty quick plans because we don’t want him getting 190 too many times.”
Klinger has been the recruit of the season since crossing to WA at the end of last summer.
After helping his new side secure the one-day title, Klinger played a key role in the Perth Scorchers’ T20 success.
And with WA sitting on top of the Shield table, the domestic treble is well on the cards.
Warriors coach Justin Langer has already nicknamed Klinger the “Matt Priddis” of the team in reference to the ever reliable West Coast midfielder.
“He’s the consummate professional. He just ticks every single box,” Langer said.
“He’s tough and he gets the job done. We love having him in the team.
“He’s got outstanding leadership, is a great character, and we’re getting all of these runs, so he’s been a fantastic recruit.”
The Redbacks were dealt a blow earlier this week when key paceman Kane Richardson was handed a one-match ban for using foul language during a club game.
But WA have their own pace woes, with Ryan Duffield (thumb) joining fellow left-arm quick Jason Behrendorff (back) on the long-term injury list.
Both players will miss the remainder of the season, with their absence placing a huge responsibility on the shoulders of Michael Hogan and Nathan Rimmington.
