In a significant turn of events, Quinton de Kock has reversed his decision to retire from One Day International (ODI) cricket and has been named in South Africa's squad for the upcoming tour of Pakistan. This recall marks a major boost for the Proteas as they prepare for a busy international schedule.
De Kock, a 32-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, had previously announced his retirement from the 50-over format after the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. However, he has now decided to make himself available for selection in both ODI and T20I formats. He will also rejoin the T20I setup for the first time since the T20 World Cup 2024 final against India.
The South African Men's selection panel announced the squads for the all-format tour of Pakistan, which includes a two-match Test series and three T20Is and three ODIs. The Test series is set to begin on October 12 in Lahore and Rawalpindi. The T20Is will be played from October 28 to November 1, followed by the ODIs from November 4 to 8.
Head coach Shukri Conrad expressed his delight at de Kock's return, stating, "Quinton's return to the white-ball space is a major boost for us. When we spoke last month about his future, it was clear that he still has a strong ambition to represent his country. Everyone knows the quality he brings to the side, and having him back can only benefit the team".
In other squad news, Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of the Test series due to a left grade two calf strain sustained during the recent tour of England. He is expected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks. Aiden Markram will lead the Test side in his absence.
The squad also sees a recall for off-spinner Simon Harmer, who last played a Test in March 2023. He joins Senuran Muthusamy and Prenelan Subrayen in the spin attack. Keshav Maharaj, who is recovering from a groin injury, will be available for the second Test only.
For the white-ball leg of the Pakistan tour, South Africa has opted to rest most of their all-format players, with the exception of Corbin Bosch and Dewald Brevis. David Miller will captain the T20I squad, while Matthew Breetzke will lead the ODI squad.
Prior to the Pakistan Tests, South Africa will also play a T20I in Namibia to inaugurate the new stadium in Windhoek. This fixture will feature a second-string squad led by Donovan Ferreira.
South Africa Squads for Pakistan and Namibia Tours:
De Kock's return provides a wealth of experience and firepower to the South African white-ball squads. His leadership and explosive batting will be invaluable as the team prepares for upcoming international assignments.
