Veteran star’s white-ball comeback sparks surge in confidence ahead of major international fixtures
Quinton de Kock’s return to ODI cricket has been branded a game-changer for South Africa, according to batting coach Ashwell Prince. After reversing his retirement, De Kock delivered a stunning run in Pakistan, reigniting optimism across the Proteas’ camp as preparations intensify for upcoming global assignments.
Key Points
- Quinton de Kock scored 239 runs at an average of 119.5 in Pakistan
- Ashwell Prince compared his impact to elite Indian stars
- Young South African batters gaining confidence from his presence
- Marco Jansen’s all-round performance praised after Test heroics
- Team focus now on adaptability and experience-driven growth
Karachi (Star Struck Times) — Quinton de Kock’s return to international one-day cricket has sent a powerful wave of confidence through the South African camp, with batting coach Ashwell Prince declaring the star wicketkeeper-batter’s comeback as “massive” for the national side. The veteran reversed his white-ball retirement earlier this year and immediately delivered standout performances during South Africa’s recent ODI tour of Pakistan.
De Kock, who had originally stepped away from ODI cricket following the 2023 World Cup, made an emphatic return by scoring 239 runs in three matches at an astonishing average of 119.5, instantly re-establishing himself as one of the most dominant openers in world cricket. His fluent stroke play and calm leadership at the top of the order proved decisive as South Africa regained stability in unfamiliar subcontinental conditions.
“He’s big, he’s massive,” Prince said while assessing De Kock’s influence on the younger dressing room. “With **Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli coming into the Indian team, I think Quinny has a similar effect for us — through sheer experience and quality.”
Prince emphasized that De Kock’s presence goes far beyond just runs on the scoreboard, highlighting the priceless mentorship he provides to South Africa’s emerging left-handers. Several young batters, many of whom are navigating their first extended international tours, are now benefiting from direct, on-field learning alongside one of the modern game’s most consistent performers.
“For these young players to sit around him, talk cricket with him, and bat with him under pressure, that accelerates growth in a way you can’t teach in practice sessions,” Prince explained. “Being out in the middle with him makes a big difference.”
The renewed leadership within the squad has come at a crucial time as South Africa continues its transition phase, blending experienced campaigners with promising youth. With upcoming ICC events on the horizon and a busy bilateral schedule ahead, the Proteas’ think-tank sees De Kock’s return as a timely stabilizer in high-intensity contests.
While De Kock’s comeback dominated headlines, Prince also turned attention to the meteoric rise of all-rounder Marco Jansen, who delivered one of his most complete performances during the recent Test series against India. Jansen’s match-defining efforts helped South Africa secure a commanding 2–0 series victory.
In the crucial Test at Guwahati, Jansen smashed 93 runs off 91 balls and backed it up with a devastating six-wicket haul for 48 runs, underlining his growing stature as one of the most valuable fast-bowling all-rounders in the international game. Prince noted that clarity of role and situational awareness have been key to unlocking Jansen’s full potential.
“When you’re batting at No. 8 or No. 9, partnerships are limited,” Prince said. “Once he gets in, he has to score quickly. That aggressive role is something we discussed and prepared for. With the ball, it was about reading the conditions properly and adjusting instantly.”
Prince revealed that communication between South Africa’s batters and bowlers played a decisive role on Indian pitches, which offered unexpected bounce. Such feedback, he explained, allowed the bowling unit to exploit steep bounce more effectively than initially planned.
Adaptability, Prince stressed, remains the cornerstone of South Africa’s strategy as they face increasingly unpredictable conditions across Asia. “What matters most is adapting to what’s in front of you, not what you expect,” he added.
Fans across social media reacted enthusiastically to De Kock’s return, with many calling it the “missing piece” in South Africa’s white-ball puzzle. One supporter posted, “With De Kock back at the top, South Africa suddenly look dangerous again,” while another wrote, “This is the comeback the Proteas desperately needed.”
Cricket analysts echoed those sentiments, noting that De Kock’s ability to dominate powerplays and rotate strike under pressure adds crucial balance to a lineup that has sometimes struggled for consistency on slow tracks. His left-hand presence also disrupts bowling rhythms, giving South Africa a significant tactical advantage against spin-heavy attacks.
The Proteas now enter the next phase of their international campaign with renewed belief, boosted by the experience of De Kock and the explosive growth of younger talents like Jansen. With momentum building and depth improving, South Africa appear better positioned to challenge for major honors in the coming year.
As preparations intensify, the message from the dressing room is clear: experience and adaptability will drive the next chapter of South African cricket’s resurgence.
FAQs
Why did Quinton de Kock return to ODI cricket?
He reversed his white-ball retirement to help stabilize South Africa’s lineup ahead of major international tournaments.
How did De Kock perform in Pakistan?
He scored 239 runs at an average of 119.5 in three matches, delivering match-winning contributions.
What did Ashwell Prince say about De Kock?
Prince compared his impact to Indian legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, calling his presence “massive.”
Who impressed besides De Kock?
All-rounder Marco Jansen starred with both bat and ball in the Test series against India.
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