South Africa’s Quinton de Kock Announces Retirement from ODI Cricket Ahead of 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup

South Africa’s batting sensation and wicket-keeping marvel, Quinton de Kock, has announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket after the final 15-member squad for the South African team was announced without his name for the forthcoming ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup 2023.

The announcement comes as a poignant moment in de Kock’s illustrious career, as he has etched his name into the annals of cricketing history with his exceptional contributions to the sport. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed de Kock’s retirement from the ODI format, marking the conclusion of a chapter that spanned nearly a decade.

Quinton de Kock’s journey in the ODI format commenced in 2013, and over the course of 140 matches, he amassed an impressive tally of 5966 runs at an average of 44.85 and a striking strike rate of 96.08. His remarkable consistency is underscored by 17 centuries and 29 half-centuries, with a crowning achievement of 178 runs against Australia in Centurion in 2016. Additionally, de Kock’s prowess as a wicket-keeper is reflected in his 183 catches and 14 stumpings.

As he prepares to bid adieu to ODI cricket, de Kock also leaves an indelible mark on the global stage. He played an instrumental role in South Africa’s campaigns in the last two editions of the Cricket World Cup, amassing a total of 450 runs in 17 matches at an average of 30.

Quinton de Kock has captained the South African squad in eight ODIs, boasting a record of four wins and three losses under his guidance.

Director of Cricket Enoch Nkwe expressed his appreciation for de Kock’s invaluable contributions, saying, “Quinton de Kock has been a really good servant to South African cricket. He set the benchmark with his attacking batting style and was a key member of the squad for a number of years. He also wore the captain’s armband and that is an honour that very few people get to hold.”

Acknowledging the significance of this transition, Nkwe continued, “We understand his decision to step back from ODI cricket and we want to thank him for his service over the years. We wish him well for the future but still look forward to seeing him represent the Proteas in T20I cricket.”