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South Africa’s Quinton de Kock got a bit emotional as he was delivering a speech ahead of his final home ODI. The Proteas are taking on Australia at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg before which De Kock was addressing his teammates in which he appeared to get emotional. It is pertinent to note that the wicketkeeper-batter will retire from ODIs after the 2023 World Cup in India scheduled to commence from October 5.
De Kock said that even though he is 31-years-old, his body feels like he is 40. He also revealed that he had a word with his family and friends before arriving at the decision.
“It was just the feeling I was getting. In the end of my Test career, I was fighting to play. 50 Tests was a lot and could take a toll on you. I gave a thought and chatted with people I trust. They said there’s no shame in retiring and focusing on other formats,” De Kock was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.
“Lots of memories in the 10-11 years. My body tells me I’m 40, my ID says I’m 31, I still mentally try to act like I am 20 all the time,” he added.
While De Kock had earlier retired from Tests too, he is focusing on the shortest format to have a long career.
“I won’t deny the effect of franchise cricket on my game and decision. I try to keep my loyalty, I think I’ve represented my Proteas badge really well. There’s a lot of money in T20s, guys try to get a top up. Any guy would do that anyway,” he said.
“I think I’d have done it five years ago, when it really took off. Now that I’m on a downslope in a career, I’ll take it. I’ll take a gap year after the career and go back into normal society,” he concluded.
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