Former South African all-rounder Lance Klusener has been enlisted as the assistant coach for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Aged 52, Klusener will work alongside head coach Justin Langer and fellow assistant coach S Sriram as the franchise endeavours to secure their first IPL title under the captaincy of KL Rahul. Lance Klusener is also entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the South Africa-based affiliate of the Super Giants franchise in SA20, known as Durban's Super Giants.
This marks Klusener's second coaching stint in the IPL, having previously served as an assistant to Shaun Pollock for the Mumbai Indians (MI) during the league's initial years. With extensive coaching experience for South Africa and Afghanistan, the former Proteas star has also contributed his expertise to Tripura on the Indian domestic cricket circuit.
Lance Klusener's Stellar Playing Career, And Transition To Coaching
Lance Klusener, who played for South Africa from 1996 to 2004, participated in 171 ODIs and 49 Tests during his international cricket career. Notably, he delivered an outstanding performance in the 1999 ODI World Cup, amassing 281 runs in nine matches at an impressive strike rate of 140.50. Additionally, Klusener showcased his all-round prowess by taking 17 wickets, earning him the prestigious Player of the Tournament award for his remarkable contributions.
Following his retirement from playing cricket, Lance Klusener transitioned into coaching, utilising his extensive experience to guide teams such as the Afghanistan national cricket team. He has also lent his coaching expertise to various domestic and T20 league sides worldwide.
Notably, Klusener had the opportunity to collaborate with Lucknow Super Giants' emerging pace bowling sensation, Shamar Joseph, during their time together at the Guyana Amazon Warriors in the Caribbean Premier League.
Lucknow Super Giants' IPL 2024 campaign is set to kick off against the Rajasthan Royals in the fourth match of the tournament. The match is scheduled to take place on March 24 at Jaipur's Sawai Mansingh Stadium.