Quinton de Kock relishing newfound energy after international break

By Benjamin Leshoro
7th November 2025

Proteas star batter Quinton de Kock says he has no regrets about retiring from international cricket two years ago, revealing that the break gave him some much-needed hunger for the game.

De Kock rolled back the years with an unbeaten 123 in the second One Day International against Pakistan, to lead his team to an eight-wicket win at the Iqbal stadium in Faisalabad.

Playing in only his first ODI series since his return to the Proteas fold in September, the wicket-keeper says he had lost the required desire after more than a decade in the green and gold.

"I feel like I've discovered a newfound energy since I've been back, energy I feel like I lost over time after playing so much international cricket.

"I was lucky to retire early enough to still be able to make a comeback."

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De Kock gave credit to teenage sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorius for the way he played, sharing an opening stand of 81 before the latter was dismissed for 46. He says all he had to do was get him on strike and let the partnership grow.

In what can be seen as a massive vote of confidence, the 32-year-old says Pretorius reminds him of his early days of international cricket.

"The kid is highly talented and reminds me a little of my younger self. He looks nice and free at the crease.

"He is only 19, and it doesn't seem like he is feeling the pressure like I did when I was his age."

The win made sure the Proteas kept the series alive and still have a chance to win it with the final match on Saturday. De Kock says both teams will go into the match under pressure.