Share

De Kock in CWC fitness race

Pretoria - Wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock is in a race against time to be fit for the 2015 Cricket World Cup, Cricket South Africa said on Saturday.

De Kock tore ankle ligaments on the third morning of the first Test against the West Indies in Pretoria.

The usual recovery period for such an injury is six to 12 weeks, putting in doubt his participation in the global event in Australia and New Zealand starting on February 14.

The Proteas had hoped to have him fit for the second Test against West Indies starting on Boxing Day, but the severity of his injury, sustained in the warm-up before the day's play, became clear following MRI scans.

The team have a ready-made replacement in AB de Villiers to keep wicket, but De Kock has formed a successful opening partnership with Hashim Amla in one-day cricket and it is there his loss would be most keenly felt.

The 22-year-old, who has made six centuries and four fifties in 35 innings at an average of 43.58, has the ability to score quick runs with his swashbuckling style.

With De Villiers to take the gloves for the second test in Port Elizabeth, the Proteas selectors must now decide whether to hand a debut to the reserve batsman in the squad, Temba Bavuma, or play an extra bowler, likely to be spinner Robin Peterson.

South Africa won the first Test by an innings and 220 runs on Saturday.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE