Quinton de Kock says he is relishing being back in the Proteas setup following the comfortable win over Pakistan in Rawalpindi in the first T20 international of a three-match series.
South Africa cruised to victory in the opening match by 55 runs, and the veteran wicketkeeper-batter says the feeling of being back in the middle – especially alongside long-time opening partner Reeza Hendricks – felt natural.
Asked about being back in the middle and what the mood in the camp was like following the win on Tuesday, de Kock said, “It was great being back out there with the team.” De Kock added, “It’s nice that my opening partner was Reeza – someone I’ve batted with for a while – so it felt like I just slotted back in with him on the other side. The camp is relaxed. We’re excited, we won our first T20 here in Pakistan, but it’s not the series win yet, so we’re focused on getting the job done tomorrow [Friday].”
Reflecting on his time away from international duty, de Kock admitted the break helped him rediscover a deeper appreciation for the Proteas badge.
“I missed the camaraderie and just representing the Proteas,” he said. “I’ve played so much that I almost forgot that childhood dream of wanting to be a Protea. After taking a break, it came back. It’s been exciting seeing new faces – a bunch of youngsters, new coaching staff – it’s refreshing. Right now, I’m just trying to find my feet again.”
De Kock pointed out his relationship with head coach Shukri Conrad and values his straightforward approach.
“It’s not my first time with Shuks,” as he affectionately calls him. “I like playing for him – he’s honest and keeps things simple, which suits me. I enjoy the way he thinks about the game.”
Once the youngster among household names, de Kock now finds himself one of the senior figures in a new-look squad – a role he seeks to embrace while speaking glowingly of a former senior figure that helped shape him in the dressing room.
“When I started, one of the guys I stuck close to, and who is now one of my best friends, was Dale (Steyn) – he taught me a lot. I’ve played with ‘Brevy’ (Dewald Brevis) before at the Titans; I just met Lhu (Lhuan-dre Pretorius) and a couple of the new guys. I am still trying to befriend everyone here. Now the youngsters are asking me questions, and I’m happy to help like Dale helped me. If I can make an impact on their careers, that would be great. It’s weird being one of the older guys – feels like just yesterday [Wednesday] Reeza and I were in the U-19 side, now we are two of the older guys in the team.”
With a reputation for not watching the game extensively when away from the field, de Kock was in a congratulatory mood despite not watching much of the Proteas women’s exploits in the ICC Women’s World Cup and offered them his well-wishes.
Drawing from past experiences and with pressure building on Pakistan after losing the opener, de Kock expects a strong response.
“We know Pakistan will come back harder after a loss. We’re mentally preparing for that. I’m not sure about the conditions – it’s my first white-ball series here – but I’ve been told PSL wickets usually play well. We’re unsure what we are going to get, but we’ll assess the wicket once we’re at practice.”
Asked what his realistic goals are, being back in the squad, de Kock was under no illusions and acknowledged his ambitions depend on form and selection.
“I want to play a couple more World Cups – it depends on scoring runs and discussions between Shukri and me. I disappeared for a year, but I still feel very fit – fitter than ever – and want to play as long as I can. The door isn’t completely open. I know I need to score runs.”
De Kock views his return and role as an opportunity to contribute not only with bat and gloves, but through experience and guidance.
“I want to help youngsters build their careers and improve. That’s partly why Shukri wanted me back – to play a senior role and help mould players through advice and with my experience.”
With a renewed sense of hunger and determination, de Kock’s return marks an important moment in South Africa’s white-ball plans and adds invaluable experience and depth to the squad.
Chuffed at winning the opener, de Kock’s eyes and those of his teammates are firmly on sealing the series.
“We’re relaxed but focused,” he said. “We hope to get the series done.”
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