MATCH STORY
Follow UsHeading into their first Super 8 clash against the USA, Quinton de Kock’s form was a cause of concern for South Africa. In T20Is in 2024, he had only 112 runs this year for the Proteas, averaging 16 at a strike rate of 130.2. He also had an underwhelming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, where he averaged 22.7 while striking at 134.4.
South Africa played three of their four group games in New York, one of the most arduous batting tracks for top-order batters. However, de Kock still looked way off his radar. South Africa had Ryan Rickleton, a like-for-like replacement for the out-of-form batter, but the Proteas preferred to stick with the veteran. He is the same batter who notched up four hundreds in the 50-over World Cup last year.
On Wednesday morning (June 19), de Kock repaid that faith, scoring 74 off only 40 balls. His innings was pivotal in lifting South Africa to 194/4.
USA started on the money after opting to bowl. Saurabh Netravalkar’s tight new ball spell (1/7 in two overs) had the Proteas 17/1 in three overs. When the first bowling change was made — Jasdeep Singh replacing Muhammad Ali-Khan – de Kock took on the opportunity to up the ante. Aiden Markram started the over with a four, but de Kock notched up three consecutive sixes to make it a 28-run over. South Africa were now on the front foot with 45/1 in four overs. This is exactly the kind of uplift the Proteas expect from the 31-year-old.
It was not just a one-over madness from de Kock. In a 110-run partnership for the second wicket alongside Markram, the left-hander contributed 70 off 35 balls before getting out. Markram, also trying to hit form, found breathing space with de Kock finding his rhythm, scoring 36 off 25 balls in that partnership.
The US pacers also contributed to de Kock’s return to form. They bowled in his radar, allowing him to target his favourite mid-wicket area. The wicketkeeper-batter hammered 47 off 19 balls against pace. Consequently, 71% of his runs came in the mid-wicket and square-leg region, including all five sixes.
The bowling-friendly pitches have so far neutralised South Africa’s stronger suit in this World Cup, ie, their batting. As a result, all four of their group games went close. Against Nepal, they won only by one run in a last-ball finish.
However, this 74 from de Kock has taken South Africa to an above-par score, from where they can think of their first big win of the tournament and gain confidence before more important games in the World Cup.
If you’ve not downloaded the Cricket.com app yet, you’re missing out — big time. Play Fantasy on Cricket.com NOW! Download the App here.
