South Africa Hopeful of Quinton de Kock’s Return to White-ball Cricket
South Africa’s white-ball coach Rob Walter remains hopeful that veteran wicket-keeper batter Quinton de Kock will continue playing T20I cricket and potentially realize his long-standing dream of winning a World Cup. De Kock had called time on his Test and ODI careers in recent years, but his T20I future remains uncertain.
“Quinny’s an enigma. He hasn’t officially called time. So we have that little glimmer of hope that sits in the background,” Walter said upon his return to South Africa on Thursday. De Kock’s emotional reaction after the T20 World Cup final suggested he may not be done with international cricket just yet.
Walter acknowledged that he has not yet discussed the matter with De Kock, stating, “It wasn’t the right time after the final to have that conversation.” However, the coach remains optimistic that the talented 30-year-old could feature in future T20 World Cups, including the 2026 edition, provided he remains active in various T20 leagues around the world.
Meanwhile, fellow Proteas veteran David Miller has confirmed his availability for South Africa’s T20I matches, quashing rumors of his retirement from the format. Miller’s commitment is crucial as South Africa set their sights on the 2027 ODI World Cup, with De Kock potentially returning to the 50-over format as well.
The Proteas’ white-ball coach was pleased with his team’s progress, particularly their ability to handle pressure situations, which has historically been a weakness.
“We’ve progressed, no doubt about that. This last World Cup, the team won small moments which in the past, potentially, haven’t gone our way,” Walter said.
South Africa’s director of cricket, Enoch Nkwe, also lauded the “massive mindset shift” within the national set-up, with both the men’s and women’s teams reaching T20 World Cup finals in quick succession. This, he believes, will instill a sense of belief that the country can achieve success at the highest level in the coming years.
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