Proteas captain Temba Bavuma did not know wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock was going to retire from ODI cricket this year until Tuesday’s public announcement.
De Kock will retire from ODI cricket after the 2023 World Cup in India. He retired from Test cricket in 2021.
“I wasn’t in the loop, as per his thinking or decision. With Quinny, at times, you can expect anything,” said Bavuma.
“It doesn’t change how we see the guy. It’s always been a pleasure playing with Quinton from our under-15 days at school. He is an incredible player, talented, too much talent.
“He will be a big loss to South Africa, at least in the ODI stuff.”
De Kock will remain available for T20I cricket, according to Cricket South Africa director of cricket Enoch Nkwe.
“Quinton has been a really good servant to South African cricket. He set the benchmark with his attacking batting style and was a key member of the squad for a number of years,” said Nkwe.
“He also wore the captain’s armband and that is an honour that very few people get to hold.
“We understand his decision to step back from ODI cricket and we want to thank him for his service over the years. We wish him well for the future but still look forward to seeing him represent the Proteas in T20I cricket.”