In a stunning turn of events, South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock has reversed his ODI retirement and will make his comeback against Pakistan in the upcoming white-ball series. The 31-year-old has been named in both the ODI and T20I squads, marking his return to international cricket after more than a year. His last appearance came in the T20 World Cup 2024 final against India in Barbados.
From Retirement to Comeback
De Kock had announced his ODI retirement after the 2023 World Cup in India, finishing with 155 ODIs, 6770 runs, an average of 45.74, a strike rate of 96.64, and 21 centuries. While he continued in T20Is for a short period, he was later sidelined as the team moved forward without him.
The change came after discussions with head coach Shukri Conrad, who confirmed de Kock’s strong desire to continue representing South Africa. With several senior players rested for the Pakistan series, his return is seen as a major boost for the Proteas.
“Quinton’s return to the white-ball space is a major boost for us. He still has a strong ambition to represent his country, and everyone knows the quality he brings,” said coach Shukri Conrad.
Leadership Updates
For the series, David Miller will captain the T20I side, while Matthew Breetzke has been handed the ODI captaincy. Breetzke’s strong leadership record with SA A and the Warriors played a big role in the decision.
South Africa Squads vs Pakistan
T20Is: David Miller (c), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Lizaad Williams
ODIs: Matthew Breetzke (c), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile
Namibia T20I Squad
Before facing Pakistan, the Proteas will also play a one-off T20I against Namibia on October 11, with de Kock included.
Squad: Donovan Ferreira (c), Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Rubin Hermann, Kwena Maphaka, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Jason Smith, Lizaad Williams
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