Kallis: All-rounders dwindling

Kallis has performed key roles with both the bat and the ball for South Africa

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South Africa’s Jacques Kallis has bemoaned the lack of top-class international all-rounders in the modern game.

Kallis is one of the few genuine all-rounders left and sees himself as one of a dying breed.

“You are seeing fewer all-rounders in international cricket these days - it’s a pity,” the 33-year-old said.

Kallis believes the main reason for this is the cluttered international fixture list, which forces players to specialise if they want to have a long international career.

“There is a heck of a lot of international cricket these days. It’s hard work,” he explained.

“Not all the all-rounders have disappeared. A guy like England’s Andrew Flintoff is still excelling.

“There are a few new ones coming through the ranks. Shane Watson of Australia is a guy that is excelling with the bat and ball.”

Kallis was referring to the void left by players such as Shaun Pollock, Andrew Hall and Justin Kemp in the South Africa team and reckons captains should be careful not to over-work their all-rounders.

“Now and then I twist the captain’s (Graeme Smith) arm for me not to have to bowl,” he added.