De Kock delivers once again for the Proteas

SOUTH Africa led New Zealand by 247 runs at close of play on day two of the third and final Test in Hamilton yesterday, thanks in chief to one man.

Resuming on 123/4, the Proteas were eventually all out for 314, thanks to a swashbuckling 90 from the talismanic Quinton de Kock.

In that single innings, De Kock justified the risk that the selectors took and again emphasised his importance to the cause.

Despite only playing 19 Test matches (so far), De Kock,

has already become the fulcrum of the Proteas’ batting card and his latest contribution

tured, pic-

was as timely as ever.

Coming in at 149/5, De Kock played his natural game of flair and fluency, and dug South Africa out of a hole that may yet make the series safe.

The left-hander, playing with an injured finger that has extra protection, received good support from Kagiso Rabada down the order, as the pace spearhead struck a career-best 34 off 31 balls, to lift the tourists beyond 300.

Skipper Faf du Plessis had earlier notched a vital half-century of his own, before falling for 53.

314 is not a mammoth total, but in the context of a match that will be hampered by rain throughout, it provides a safety net.

De Kock will miss the IPL most likely, but he was just as eager to run the gauntlet of life over the next few days.

In an age of infinite riches in the shortest format, De Kock has prioritised his country over club, because the IPL will be around forever.

The journey that he is on with the Proteas, rebuilding their case to be No 1, takes pride of place.

In a month, De Kock and Rabada will sign longer term deals with Cricket South Africa, confirming their standing as premium players.

The game may take them across the globe for various assignments in future, but De Kock and Rabada have every chance of establishing themselves as the best in their respective fields for the next decade.

It is a terrific prospect, given that they have already achieved so much, so soon.

The future looks very bright indeed, amidst the gloom of Hamilton and it’s fickle weather.