The former age-level national player won’t be used by the Lions in the 50-over competition and has agreed to join the Free State as a loan player in what will be an important campaign for them.

The 34-year-old Hendricks has played over 100 List-A games for the Lions at an average of 37.91 and a strike rate of 74.20. This includes four centuries and 21 fifties. He also boasts 18 first-class tons and 52 half-centuries.

Hendricks, who will be linking up with the Knights in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, told OFM Sport that he looks forward to the challenge that lies ahead and cannot wait to play with some familiar faces again.

“Unfortunately, I haven’t really been thought of in the plans for the Lions for this campaign,” said the experienced Hendricks.

“So, as that door closed, another one opened with the Knights. The Knights are more than willing to have me and sort of get me on board to help out with this campaign. I’m looking forward to what this next month has in store for me because this is definitely one of my favourite formats.

“I’ve had a great run with the Lions over the past 10 to 12 years in this format. I’m looking to add as much value as I can and see if I can win some games and impact some games for the Knights.

Dominic Hendricks. Photo: Gallo

“I’m also very much looking forward to working with players I’ve played with and against in the past. Aaron Phangiso and Malusi Siboto – I’ve played with them for many, many years at the Lions. Now I get to play with them again at the Knights. 

“Jacques Snyman, Patrick Botha, and Dane Piedt are players I’ve got to know over the years, so I’m looking forward to being in a change room with them as opposed to being on the other side of the field against them in years gone by.

‘Hendricks will add a lot of value’

“Again, hopefully I can add some value and win some games.”

The destructive Knights and Proteas batter Jacques Snyman, in turn, told OFM Sport that Hendricks will add a lot of value.

“Like you said, Dominic is a massive player for us, and his record doesn’t lie – he’s a top player and a great batter,” said Snyman.

“It’s also nice to have another senior player in the batting department. He comes with a lot of experience as well. So, he is definitely a big signing for us, and he’s especially important going into the one-day competition. We’re all really looking forward to it and ready to get going.”

Another former Knight who now resides in England may also be linking up with the team as a loan player, but this is yet to be confirmed or finalised.

The Knights will face the North West Dragons in Potchefstroom on Saturday, with the game at the JB Marks Oval scheduled to start at 13:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg