De Kock’s Return Sparks South Africa’s ODI Fightback
Quinton de Kock has made a strong start in the second phase of his ODI career, inspiring left-handed teammates De Zorzi and Pretorius to follow his lead. On Thursday, 6 November 2025, De Kock scored his 22nd ODI century during South Africa’s eight-wicket win over Pakistan in Faisalabad.
His unbeaten 123 off 119 balls was key in leveling the series at 1-1, with the decider scheduled for tomorrow at the Iqbal Cricket Stadium. This innings came after his earlier knock of 63 runs from 71 deliveries in the series opener.
At 32 years old, De Kock is playing his first white-ball tour since retiring from ODI cricket after the 2023 World Cup. His last century before this one was also in that tournament, where he scored four hundreds and finished as the third-highest run-scorer overall.
Emergence of New Left-Handed Talents
Following De Kock’s retirement at the World Cup, Tony de Zorzi was brought in as his initial replacement during the subsequent ODI series against India. On Thursday, De Zorzi and De Kock formed an important 153-run partnership for the second wicket, with De Zorzi contributing 76 runs off 63 balls.
“Both Johannesburg-raised left-handed top-order batters attended King Edward VII School (KES) boys’ school.”
Key Partnership and Shared Background
- De Kock’s unbeaten 123 powered South Africa to victory.
- De Zorzi made a significant impact with 76 runs in the crucial partnership.
- Both players share their roots in Johannesburg and schooling at KES.
Together, these developments underline a promising synergy and rejuvenation in South Africa’s lineup powered by De Kock’s return.
Author’s Summary
Quinton de Kock’s comeback energized South Africa’s ODI team, with emerging talents De Zorzi and Pretorius complementing his form and strengthening their batting core.