Spectacular Klaasen makes huge Proteas statement with record-breaking Titans knock

Run drought? What run drought?

That's the question less discerning local cricket fans would've asked after various members of the Proteas' Test squad for next month's tour to Australia boasted some eye-catching scores in the latest round of fixtures in the 4-Day Series.

Scores of substance have been a longstanding headache for South Africa in the pinnacle format of the game, calling their depth into question as well.

Not that that was evident on Friday.

READ | De Bruyn and Klaasen show the Proteas' new 'normal': 50-over form dictates Test selection

Heinrich Klaasen was the star of show, celebrating his recall with a patently outrageous 292 off just 240 deliveries for the Titans against a hapless Knights attack in Centurion.

The 31-year-old batted like a man keen to show that he shouldn't be considered a white-ball specialist at international level, striking no less than 39 fours and 9 sixes in a spectacular effort.

Needless to say, it's his career-best score and also the highest in Titans history.

Moreover, it was an innings that - under normal circumstances - would've suggested that Klaasen is now in the inside lane to be considered as the Proteas' wicketkeeper-batter Down Under.

Except the man he was supposedly putting under pressure, incumbent Kyle Verreynne, responded in kind.

The Western Province skipper was at his silky best in crafting a brilliant, unbeaten 201 against the Boland Rocks, vividly showcasing that he's not about to relinquish his spot without a fight.

With South Africa's team management suggesting they would consider seven specialist batters, it's conceivable that both men could be included.

There was good news for captain Dean Elgar too as he joined Klaasen in the SuperSport Park run-fest, stroking a fine 137.

Ra