Kleinveldt has what it takes to be a hit with Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire captain Alex Wakely is backing the club’s overseas signing to make a big impact this summer.
Rory Kleinveldt made a good impression on his debut for NorthamptonshireRory Kleinveldt made a good impression on his debut for Northamptonshire
Rory Kleinveldt made a good impression on his debut for Northamptonshire

South African Rory Kleinveldt made his bow for the County in the opening game of the season against Gloucestershire.

And while the match did not necessarily go completely to plan for captain, bowler or team, Wakely has seen enough of his new recruit to expect good things to come.

“I think Rory is going to be a very big player for us,” the skipper explained.

“He’s a great guy and has fitted in brilliantly in the dressing-room.

“He has brought his family over with him and he seems to be settled in already.

“He didn’t feel he bowled as well as he wanted to in the first game - he thought he bowled a little bit too wide.

“But he has only just arrived here and it is a different thing bowling in this country than it is in South Africa.

“It’s not just the conditions but the ball. He uses the Kookaburra at home and the ball will swing a lot more here.

“I think any pitch that has a bit of green tinge to it and he is going to cause a lot of problems and be a real asset for us.”

Wakely does admit any success will require some fortune on the injury front as Northamptonshire currently have only six frontline seam bowlers on their staff.

But, if Lady Luck smiles, he is sure they can use Kleinveldt to his best potential.

Wakely added: “If we can keep our bowlers fit it will make his job easier.

“I don’t see him as the sort of bowler you want to take the brunt of the workload.

“You want to use him in short spells and bring him back a few times during the day.

“He did well for us against Gloucestershire and showed he is a fine bowler.

“I also thought Olly Stone bowled really well.

“He bowled with real pace and was probably about two yards quicker than last year.

“That was good to see.”