In a surprising turn of events, South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock has announced his return to international cricket. Nearly two years after retiring from ODIs following the 2023 World Cup, de Kock is back in the Proteas setup for the upcoming Pakistan tour in October-November 2025. His inclusion in both the ODI and T20 squads has brought fresh hope to the South African camp ahead of a challenging away series.
Quinton de Kock’s U-Turn from Retirement
De Kock had bid farewell to ODI cricket in late 2023 after a stellar run, focusing on franchise cricket and T20 leagues. However, according to reports, his passion to represent South Africa again played a big role in this U-turn.
South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad expressed delight over the decision, saying:
“Quinton’s return to our white-ball team is a massive boost. When we spoke last month, it was clear he still had the hunger to play for his country. His presence adds depth to our batting and invaluable experience in pressure games.”
Quinton de Kock ODI Career
- ODI Debut: 2013 vs New Zealand
- Matches Played: 155
- Runs Scored: 6,770
- Batting Average: 45.74
- Strike Rate: 96.64
- Hundreds/Fifties: 21/30
- Highest Score: 178
- Dismissals as Wicketkeeper: 209 catches, 17 stumpings
De Kock was one of South Africa’s standout performers in the 2023 ODI World Cup, signing off with consistent knocks at the top of the order.
Pakistan Tour Schedule
The Proteas will travel to Pakistan for a full tour comprising Tests, T20Is, and ODIs.
- Test Series: Starts October 12, with Aiden Markram leading in Temba Bavuma’s absence due to injury.
- T20 Series: October 28 – November 1 (three matches).
- ODI Series: November 4, 6, and 8.
De Kock will feature in both the ODI and T20 series, giving South Africa a proven match-winner at the top of the order.
South Africa Squads for Pakistan Tour
T20I Squad: David Miller (captain), Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Corbin Bosch, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Donavon Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, George Linde, Lungi Ngidi, Luan-dre Pretorius, Lizad Williams, Andile Simelane, Quaena Mafaka, Nakaba Peter.
ODI Squad: Matthew Breetzke (captain), Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Corbin Bosch, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Donavon Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, George Linde, Lungi Ngidi, Luan-dre Pretorius, Quaena Mafaka, Nakaba Peter, Sinethemba Qeshile.
De Kock’s return comes at a crucial time for South Africa, who are looking to strengthen their white-ball squads ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. His ability to dominate bowling attacks early in the innings, combined with his wicketkeeping skills, makes him a vital addition.
