Share

Lions' De Kock ready for Steyn

Cape Town - Young Highveld Lions batting star Quinton de Kock is eager to face the world's best bowler when his side take on the Cape Cobras in the One-Day Cup final at the Wanderers on Friday.

The 19-year-old wicketkeeper batsman is tipped to make the Proteas' T20 squad for the upcoming New Zealand series, and according to his coach at the Lions, Geoffrey Toyana, the youngster is not afraid to face Dale Steyn.

De Kock impressed in the recent Champions League T20 tournament when he smashed 51 not out form 33 balls against a Mumbai Indians line-up consisting of bowlers of the calibre of Lasith Malinga, Mitchell Johnson, Harbhajan Singh and Kieron Pollard. He is also one of the top batsman in this season's One-Day Cup with 262 runs, including an eye-catching 115 against the Titans last month.

"The Cobras have an impressive team, especially with their Proteas who are available again, but we also have heaps of experience," Toyana told the Beeld website.

"Our young players are also eagerly awaiting the chance to show what they've got and I know someone like Quinton can't wait to bat against Dale."

Steyn's five for 45 helped the Cobras defeat the Titans by three wickets in their eliminator clash last week. Apart from Steyn, they also have the luxury of utilising international players in Vernon Philander, Rory Kleinveldt and Robin Peterson. Graeme Smith, Jacques Kallis and JP Duminy cannot be considered due to injury.

The Lions look likely to pick only Alviro Peterson among their players returning from international duty after Toyana earlier this week hinted he won’t pick wicketkeeper Thami Tsolekile and struggling leg spinner Imran Tahir.

Play starts from 15:00 on Friday.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE