Quinton de Kock: South African batsman set to call it quits on ODI career following the World Cup

South Africa’s Quinton de Kock to Retire from ODI Cricket after World Cup

In a surprising move, South African batter Quinton de Kock has announced his retirement from one-day international (ODI) cricket following the upcoming World Cup in India. However, fans can still catch him playing T20 internationals as he continues his career in that format.

The announcement came shortly after South Africa unveiled their 15-player squad for the highly anticipated tournament. The team will be led by talented batter Temba Bavuma.

South Africa is scheduled to kick off their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka on October 7th. With De Kock’s decision looming over the squad, South Africa’s director of cricket Enock Nkwe reflected on De Kock’s contribution to the national team:

“Quinton de Kock has been a really good servant to South African cricket,” said Nkwe. “He set the benchmark with his attacking batting style and was a key member of the squad for a number of years.”

De Kock leaves behind an impressive ODI record, having played 140 matches and amassing 5,966 runs at an average of 44.85. His retirement comes after stepping away from Test cricket last year in order to spend more time with his family.

While he took some time off during South Africa’s recent T20 series against Australia – which they unfortunately lost 3-0 – De Kock is expected to return for the ODI leg of the series starting on Thursday.

Notably, De Kock has also secured a contract with Melbourne Renegades in Australia’s Big Bash League, presenting an unfortunate clash with South Africa’s upcoming home white-ball series against India.