Despite topping the Northamptonshire batting charts this season, Lance Klusener wasn't offered a new contract by the county - a decision that has surprised many. A post on the Tim Walton's bandana blog (self-styled unofficial home of Northants cricket) explains that given Klusener's wages, his poor bowling and lack of match-winning performances, Northamptonshire have made the right decision in letting him go.

In 2008 Northamptonshire have won three matches (to date). Klusener was absent for the first, scored 0 and 10* in the second and despite scoring 65 in the third was overshadowed by a stunning century from [David] Sales that thwarted Leicestershire’s bowlers in distinctly unfriendly conditions for batting.

Klusener may have scored consistently in the Championship but he has not proved to be a difference-maker in leading Northamptonshire to wins against the odds. He may have been the difference between defeat and a draw on occasion, but ultimately he has not been able to swing games in the County’s favours.