(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Quinton de Kock Reverses Retirement Ahead of South Africa’s Tour of Pakistan
South African cricket has received a huge boost ahead of its tour of Pakistan, as star wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock has officially reversed his retirement from ODI cricket. The 31-year-old has committed to representing the Proteas across formats once again, adding both experience and firepower to the squad.
De Kock, who last featured for South Africa in the T20 World Cup final against India in June 2024, had been out of international cricket for more than a year. His comeback comes at a crucial moment, with South Africa preparing for next year’s T20 World Cup.
Fresh Leadership Across Formats
With De Kock’s return, he will feature in both the ODI and T20I squads against Pakistan. The series brings new leadership roles, as:
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David Miller will captain the T20I side.
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Matthew Breetzke takes charge of the ODI squad.
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Aiden Markram leads the Test side in the absence of Temba Bavuma, who is sidelined with a calf strain.
The two-Test series begins on October 12 in Lahore.
South Africa Squads for Pakistan Tour
🏏 Test Squad
Aiden Markram (captain), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj* (2nd Test), Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne
🏏 T20I Squad
David Miller (captain), 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
🏏 ODI Squad
Matthew Breetzke (captain), 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
Why De Kock’s Comeback Matters
For cricket fans in Pakistan, Quinton de Kock’s return makes the series even more exciting. Known for his aggressive batting style and ability to dominate bowlers in Asian conditions, De Kock is expected to be one of South Africa’s biggest match-winners. His presence ensures Pakistan’s bowling attack will face a serious challenge throughout the series.
High-Profile Series Ahead
South Africa will play:
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2 Tests
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3 ODIs
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3 T20Is
With Quinton de Kock back in the squad and fresh leaders guiding the Proteas across all formats, the South Africa vs Pakistan series promises thrilling cricket, high-intensity battles, and moments that could shape the future of both teams.
