The nature of the T20 World Cups doesn’t allow favouritism to any team: Quinton de Kock ahead of India versus South Africa

AHMEDABAD, February 21: The South Africans looked in fine rhythm at the Motera nets under the ring of fire at the Narendra Modi Stadium ahead of their Super Eights clash against India on Sunday. Experienced veteran Quinton de Kock expressed himself openly on his raw thoughts ahead of the all-important encounter, as the Proteas face the Men in Blue in a T20 World Cup 2026 game. 

On being asked if the South Africans have it in them to go the extra mile and beat India in the finals this time round, given both the teams reach there, de Kock said that the dynamics of a multinational event are very difficult to forecast. He further opined that one over or one player is enough to change the complexion of the game, especially in the shortest format of the game. He also attributed the unpredictable nature of global tournaments, where past results do not guarantee future performances.

“No, I don’t think so [that South Africa can beat India in the finals]. I think the nature of World Cups is that it doesn’t allow favouritism at some point, because at any moment of time in a game, someone can win a game out of nowhere. So that’s the thing,” de Kock responded to CricTracker’s query at the pre-match press conference.

“It’s quite a fickle game, World Cups, especially T20 World Cups, because games can be changed in a matter of two to three overs by just one individual. So I wouldn’t say anyone’s really favourite because there are some really good teams going forward now. Maybe one or two guys are playing better cricket, but it doesn’t mean in the future games they’re going to win. That’s just because of the fickleness of the T20 World Cups,” he added.

It is worth mentioning that de Kock is set to play a crucial role for the Proteas in the ongoing tournament, especially after the kind of start they have had. The seasoned opener has already amassed 118 runs in the group stage for the 2024 runner-ups and will be looking to capture momentum and prove his worth as an experienced addition in the Aiden Markram-led side.