No need for Kallis

         

  The selectors and coach Gary Kirsten have made it clear throughout the series with Pakistan that the majority of the ODI squad is settled, with just one or two positions up for grabs. The resting of Kallis can thus be seen as an opportunity for an extra batsmen and bowler to get some game time and stake a claim for a permanent spot.The inclusion of two players that, at best, will be a little rusty, will disrupt a unit that has just convincingly won their much-talked about 'knockout simulation' in Benoni. The momentum gained from winning a pressure game could be lost if too many changes in personnel are made. Duminy has not being playing because he is still recovering from an Achilles injury that he suffered in Australia. This has left another spot in the ODI team vacant while Duminy has been in rehabilitation. The newcomers have mostly settled in well, but it is the general thought that Kallis and Duminy will be back in the XI come June.The selection panel is therefore left with a tough decision. Duminy is a wonderful ODI player who offers the team balance by being handy with the ball and in the field, in addition to his talent with the bat. He is also young enough to be a part of the team as it grows in the future. Kallis poses the real dilemma for the powers-that-be. He is so important to the Test team that he is more often than not rested when the coloured clothing comes out, in an attempt to prolong his career.South Africa have crashed out of more than its fair share of global tournaments, and they will have to be careful if they wish to avoid yet another embarrassment. The inclusion of a player who has had very little cricket of late, Kallis, and another who will only be cleared to play shortly before the tournament starts, Duminy, may not be the wisest decision.