Quinton de Kock’s move to the Titans from the Highveld Lions is more about personal growth than about any financial incentive, though it has left the franchise where he first gained national prominence bitterly disappointed.
The Titans announced this week that the talented left- hand batsman and national wicketkeeper had become their second acquisition from the Lions – following Chris Morris’ move last month.
De Kock, a former King Edward VII pupil, informed the Lions in a face-to-face discussion with Gauteng Cricket Board chief executive Greg Fredericks and coach Geoffrey Toyana, that he would ply his trade north of the Jukskei River, on account of personnel circumstances.
De Kock, who has lived in the Centurion area for the last few years, is looking to settle in the region.
While the Titans are delighted to have his name on their books their CEO, Jacques Faul, pointed out that De Kock was not head-hunted. “As a nationally contracted player, he is duty bound to have a domestic franchise to which he is associated. I know Quinton very well, and he is a quality player, so of course we are very happy to have him in our squad,” said Faul.
How many matches De Kock will play for the Titans depends on national commitments. Faul said he doesn’t expect to see the 21-year-old in Titans colours except on the odd occasion next summer.
As the national team’s wicketkeeper across all three formats, De Kock, depending on form and fitness, will be fully involved for the Proteas throughout the summer starting in India, where SA will play four Tests, five ODIs and three T20 Internationals in October and November. Thereafter the national side will play Tests, ODIs and T20s against England in December and January.
“Obviously it’s good that he wants to be associated with our brand but we are also realistic about his national commitments,” said Faul. “He has been very good with the Lions, always availing himself when there haven’t been national call-ups, and if we are involved in a semi-final or final, and he’s available to play, we will be delighted to call on him.”
The Lions have been left bitterly disappointed by De Kock’s departure, particularly as he is a player the franchise had developed and, given his scholarly background, has intimate ties with the union and franchise. “We do appreciate that Quinton came and sat down with us face to face to give us his reasons for moving and we understand them, but we are bitterly disappointed nevertheless,” said Lions chief executive, Greg Fredericks.
The Lions announced last night that they had re-signed fast bowler Hardus Viljoen on a two-year contract, ending speculation about him moving to New Zealand. Viljoen was the second highest wicket-taker for the Lions with 39 wickets in the four-day competition last season as they annexed the Sunfoil Series.
“We’re delighted to have Hardus back, and there are several other players coming through our system, so we’ll continue to be competitive next season,” said Fredericks. - The Star