David Wiese is the ideal solution for the problematic all-rounder position South-Africa has struggled with since the retirement of Jacques Kallis. Wiese is capable of producing moments of brilliance with bat and ball and can change the course of a match in a few overs. The selectors have been searching for an all-rounder who can perform on a consistent bases in both departments and many have tried and tested, but have not found a suitable player.
Previously the role has come naturally with world-class all-rounders such as Mike Procter, Lance Klusener, Shaun Pollock and Kallis, but they are now scarce.
Wiese deserves a chance after a fantastic Indian Premier League for the Royal Challengers Bangladore and he was deservingly included in the T20 squad against Bangladesh. He is a smart bowler who mixes up his pace brilliantly and has a cunning slower ball. The 29-year-old is very accurate and has many variations to cull batsmen. The Pretoria born lower order batsmen is a deadly finisher who can smash valuable and often match-winning runs with his big-hitting at the back and of an innings.
He can especially add value to the national T20 squad as he is most comfortable in the shortest format and it is where he is most potent, because his slower balls come into play the most. A prime example of his potential when he claimed excellent and economical figures of 5-23 in 4 overs against the West-Indies in January.
Wiese is very experienced and knows the expectations and pressures of International cricket so now will be a good time for the selectors to give him their confidence and establish him in the Protea side.