“It was a bit of a surprise, to be honest,” she told News24 of her promotion to No 4.
“I haven’t really batted there in a long time. I’m normally coming in lower down the order and trying to finish games.”
South Africa’s campaign got off to the worst possible start at Old Trafford on Saturday as they were bowled out for 107 in pursuit of Australia’s 172-8, suffering a heavy 65-run defeat.
The loss leaves the Proteas under immediate pressure ahead of Wednesday’s must-win clash against Pakistan at Edgbaston, with tournament favourites India looming large at Old Trafford on Sunday.
India superstar Sharma delivers stellar show
One of the talking points from the defeat was De Klerk’s elevation to No 4.
De Klerk, a renowned finisher, was called into action early after the dismissals of Sune Luus and Annerie Dercksen.
She responded with 25 from 22 balls in a 41-run partnership with captain Laura Wolvaardt as the pair set about rebuilding the innings from a precarious 7-2.
De Klerk said: ““I’m not sure why I’m there (No 4), but it’s a team sport and whatever the team needs of you, you try and put your best foot forward.”
Nevertheless, De Klerk said she “really enjoyed my time out in the middle”.
“If the coaches feel I’m best suited at number four in this tournament or going forward, then I’m totally happy to do that.”
Proteas Women T20 World Cup Fixtures
17 June: South Africa vs Pakistan, Edgbaston, Birmingham ((7:30pm)
21 June: South Africa vs India, Old Trafford (3:30pm)
25 June: South Africa vs Netherlands, Bristol County Ground, Bristol (7:30pm)
28 June: South Africa vs Bangladesh, Lord’s, London (11:30am)
Photo: Sameera Peiris/Getty Images
