Will Quinton de Kock play for South Africa again?
South Africa's white-ball coach, Rob Walter, has expressed uncertainty regarding Quinton de Kock's future in T20 Internationals. De Kock, who is currently without a national contract and has not officially retired from international cricket, was excluded from two consecutive series following the T20 World Cup. He did not participate in the three T20Is against West Indies last month and will also be absent from the upcoming two matches against Ireland.
Coach Walter leaves door open for de Kock's return
When questioned about de Kock's availability in a press conference, Walter stated that there would be no immediate clarity. He said, "I don't know, to be dead honest. For the next little while, there will be no conversations between myself and Quinny as to whether he wants to play for South Africa again." However, Walter has left the door open for de Kock to initiate a discussion about his potential return.
De Kock's retirement and South Africa's selection policy shift
De Kock retired from Test cricket in 2021 and ODIs after the 50-over World Cup last year. Walter had previously suggested that de Kock was considering retiring from all international cricket but was convinced to stay on for the 2024 T20 World Cup. This decision marked a significant change in South Africa's selection policy, which typically requires players to participate in some international cricket ahead of major tournaments.
De Kock's performance in T20 World Cup and league cricket
Despite his retirement from other formats, de Kock proved his worth in the T20 World Cup by becoming South Africa's highest run-scorer. Since then, he has continued to play in MLC and the CPL and is set to participate in the SA20 and IPL. Walter emphasized that while these appearances keep de Kock eligible for South Africa, they do not guarantee his selection.
Walter emphasizes performance-based selection for de Kock
Walter clarified that any future discussions with de Kock would be based on his performance. He stated, "There might be a conversation and also that conversation does initially mean it will lead to him being selected." He added, "What will become more and more important is performance. He's not exactly old [de Kock is 31] so from here on in, it's a performance-based conversation."
South Africa explores alternatives in de Kock's absence
In de Kock's absence, South Africa is exploring other options for the opening role and wicketkeeping. Reeza Hendricks has been given an opportunity as an opener while Kyle Verreynne, Ryan Rickelton, and Heinrich Klaasen are being considered for wicketkeeping duties. However, only Klaasen is not part of the squads to play against Afghanistan and Ireland in the UAE due to personal reasons.
