Quinton de Kock Discusses Pressure of ICC World Cups in India
High Stakes of Playing in India
Centurion, South Africa - January 6: Quinton de Kock, the prominent wicketkeeper-batter from South Africa, expressed that competing in the ICC World Cups held in India comes with significant pressure due to the large and enthusiastic crowds. He noted that World Cup matches present a unique challenge compared to other cricketing events worldwide.
Currently leading the run charts in the SA20 League 2025-26 season as captain of the Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC), de Kock has accumulated 205 runs across five matches, including two half-centuries, boasting an impressive strike rate of 173.73.
When questioned about his preparations for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026, de Kock remarked that a batter's current form does not necessarily influence their performance in the tournament.
He pointed out that throughout his career, he has witnessed players who were out of form achieving remarkable success at World Cups, while those in good form sometimes struggle.
"Honestly, it makes no difference. I’ve seen players with no form arrive at World Cups and score the most runs. Conversely, players in form can come and score nothing. It truly means nothing. World Cups are a different challenge, especially in India where the crowds are large and loud. It’s a completely different game compared to regular cricket," de Kock shared with the media.
During South Africa's recent tour of India in November and December 2025, de Kock was the second-highest run-scorer in the five-match T20I series, amassing 156 runs in four matches at an exceptional strike rate of 181.40, including two half-centuries.
He also mentioned his intention to impart his experience of playing in India to younger players who may not be familiar with the specific venues.
"For me, it doesn’t matter where I’ve played; it’s the same now as it was two years ago. I’ve visited India multiple times, and if I don’t understand the conditions by now, I haven’t been doing my job right. My goal is to enter the World Cup and share my insights about India with those who haven’t played at these grounds," he added.
The South Africa squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 includes: Aiden Markram (captain), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper), Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, and Jason Smith.