Heinrich Klaasen apologised to Mark Wood after being over-zealous in his century celebration during South Africa’s win over England in Mumbai today (October 21).
Klaasen scored a brutal 61-ball century towards the end of South Africa’s innings. His innings included 12 fours and four sixes, but he was eventually bowled out for 109 by Gus Atkinson. South Africa posted 399-7 in 50 overs (the most runs England have ever conceded in a men’s ODI) and defeated the defending champions for 170. His 229-run victory over them is England’s worst ever defeat in this format.
Clasen celebrated his century of Wood’s bowling, hitting a six in the final over of the game and hitting a further four to reach the milestone. While celebrating, he let out a loud scream that was apparently directed at Wood, who was staring at him during the incident.
A few pitches later, Klaasen walked up to Wood, seemingly apologizing, and gave him a fist bump, which Wood accepted.
After the game, Klaasen spoke about the incident in a press conference. “I didn’t say anything to him,” Claassen said. “I apologized immediately after the match. He punched me in the leg twice, it hurt quite a bit but it’s pure emotion. And yes, again, to him and the English boys. I’m sorry, but it’s pure emotion that comes out and can be difficult to control.
“But I apologized immediately and spoke to him after the game. I hope everything will be resolved.”
“They played great and I think he apologized right away, so there are no hard feelings.”
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