SA vs IND: Quinton de Kock likely to miss second, third Test due to awaited birth of child

In what can be called a major development, Quinton de Kock is set to miss some part of the Test series between South Africa and India as he awaits the birth of his first child. The wicketkeeper-batter’s wife Sasha is expected to give birth in early January, which might rule the southpaw out of both the second and third Tests, given bio-bubble conditions.

De Kock’s absence would be a major blow for the Proteas side as the southpaw has been a cornerstone of the side’s batting line-up. South Africa’s lower-order would look fragile in his absence and his précised glovework behind the stumps might also be missed. One of Kyle Verreynne and Ryan Rickelton are set to fill De Kock’s shoes in the crucial series.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s selection convener Victor Mpitsang confirmed the major development to ESPNcricinfo. Notably, India are the top-ranked Test team, which dominated Australia and England in Test series earlier this year. As the Proteas side hasn’t been sensational in the longest format lately, many are seeing India as favorites for this series.

Kyle Verreynne likely to replace Quinton de Kock in the playing XI

Speaking of De Kock’s potential replacements, Verreynne made his Test debut during the West Indies tour earlier this year as vice-captain Temba Bavuma was injured. He couldn’t make a significant mark and managed just 39 runs in three innings. He has played three First-Class games for Western Province, notching up one half-century.

As far as Ryan Rickelton is concerned, the 25-year-old would make his Test debut if he’s considered in the playing XI. Notably, the left-handed batter has been in impressive form lately as he’s 10th on the first-class batting charts this season. Moreover, he has scored two centuries in his last three assignments in the longest format. Hence, it would be interesting to see who’ll get to play in place of De Kock.

South Africa’s Test squad: Dean Elgar, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada, Sarel Erwee, Beuran Hendricks, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Anrich Nortje, Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen. Kyle Verreynne, Marco Jansen, Glenton Stuurman, Prenelan Subrayen, Sisanda Magala, Ryan Rickelton, Duanne Olivier