Ahead of the crucial ODI series against the hosts India, South African captain Quinton de Kock believes that the experienced players have to take major responsibilities in this tour as their overall squad hasn’t much experience yet.
South Africa have landed in India after winning the three-match home ODI series against Australia by the 3-0 margin. While the selectors have mostly maintained that ODI squad for the ongoing Indian tour, Faf du Plessis is an important addition in this squad. Quinton de Kock feels that Faf’s return to the ODI cricket is crucial for the team.
The Proteas captain said before the opening game of the ODI series, “Obviously, Faf (du Plessis) has comeback. He plays a big role for us from the leadership point of view. He is here to help out the younger guys in the team. He adds a lot of value for us. He also knows he has lot of value to give to this team. His experience will be a big help for us in this series.
“We understand that we are coming here with quite an inexperienced side in these conditions but it’s important Faf, me, David Miller to help out these guys around, lead the way. Pass on our knowledge to the youngsters.”
India and South Africa will play the first game of the three-match ODI series on Thursday (12th March) at Dharamsala.
Though Faf du Plessis was recently playing in the Tests and T20Is, he hasn’t played an ODI yet since the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, where he scored 63, 96* and 100 runs in the last three games respectively.
Quinton de Kock talked about Faf’s recent break from the game. While they are happy on his return to the side, the team hasn’t decided about Faf’s present batting position yet.
De Kock added, “He (Du Plessis) was given a chance to have a break. It’s been a long season so I think it was important to let him put his feet up for a while, just re-organise his thoughts.
“Just glad to have him back with us. We are undecided where he is going to bat at the moment but we will come up with the decision later.”
I am sure we are also coming here with a lot of confidence: Quinton de Kock
The Proteas captain praised the present Indian team. However, he is also confident about their strong fight on this important tour.
He said, “India is an unbelievable team, They have got great balance, but I am sure we are also coming here with a lot of confidence.”
The Proteas left-arm pacer Beuren Hendricks was ill, but he has recovered and ready for the upcoming matches in this tour. However, the South African captain isn’t sure about Temba Bavuma‘s fitness.
Quinton de Kock, “Beuran was unfortunately ill back in South Africa but he is back up for selection. Temba we will find out today but I don’t think he will be ready, I am not sure.”
India and South Africa will play the second and third ODI of this series at Lucknow and Kolkata on 15th and 18th March respectively.