De Kock Reverses ODI Retirement, Recalled for Pakistan Tour

Quinton de Kock has reversed his ODI retirement and been recalled to South Africa’s white-ball squads for the upcoming Pakistan tour (two Tests, three ODIs, three T20Is) and a one‑off T20 in Namibia, returning to international cricket after roughly a 15‑month absence. Coach Shukri Conrad called the move a “major boost,” reiterated that players must prioritise bilateral commitments under his all‑format policy, and said most all‑format players will be rested for the subsequent white-ball legs. The 32‑year‑old, who has been active across global franchise leagues and has signed with the Lions, brings extensive recent white‑ball form to the side. South Africa will begin their World Test Championship title defence in Pakistan without captain Temba Bavuma, who is expected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks, so Aiden Markram will captain the two Tests and Keshav Maharaj is likely to miss the first Test. Simon Harmer has been recalled to bolster a spin‑heavy attack, while Matthew Breetzke will lead the ODI team and David Miller will captain the T20 side for the white‑ball matches.