back icon

News

De Kock likely to return to South Africa after issuing apology

article_imageNEWS
Last updated on 29 Oct 2021 | 06:51 PM
Follow Us
De Kock likely to return to South Africa after issuing apology

South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj hinted that Quinton de Kock is set to return to the playing XI after issuing apology about taking a knee

South Africa is ready to welcome wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock back into the side after issuing an apology for opting out of Cricket South Africa's directive which made it mandatory for all the players to take a knee. De Kock withdrew from the T20 World Cup match against West Indies after refusing a take a knee which blew up a storm of speculation.

Leg-spinner Keshav Maharaj said that the left-hander's quality in the top-order remains an asset to South Africa, but said that the final decision rests with the selectors.

"That's down to the selectors in terms of whether he starts but if he does get the opportunity he will definitely slot straight back into the team," Maharaj said.

"We know what Quinny can do with the bat, he puts match-winning knocks out. We saw that in Sri Lanka where he was Player of the Series. If he does get the opportunity, I am sure he will slot back into that opening role. He is in a good space. It's been a tough week for him but he is a very mature character, despite what people may think. Quinny is Quinny and we love having him in the team," he added.

De Kock on Thursday issued an apology on the matter saying he was happy to take a knee and voiced his support to the Black Lives Matter movement.

"No-one is a racist within our team. We all support one another and respect everyone's cultural, religious and spiritual differences," Maharaj said.

The leg-spinner felt that the past one week has brought the team closer.

"I am a very religious person so I know that you have got to be accepting of a lot of things and we respect that. We all in the team are in a good space. It's been a tough week but it's drawn us together and we've drawn some strength and inspiration from this," he said.

Maharaj said that the squad is excited for Saturday's Super 12s match against Sri Lanka.

"The spirits were really high at training today. There's that buzz and that drive that is back into the team after quite a long two days. Our focus is back on the cricket for now," he said.

Related Article

Loader