In the deciding ODI between India national cricket team and South Africa national cricket team in Visakhapatnam, Quinton de Kock delivered a commanding performance. After indifferent returns in the first two games (scoring 8 and 0), de Kock was in full control in the final match — launching an aggressive and decisive innings.
He reached his century in just 80 balls, smashing six sixes and eight fours. This was a statement-making return to form at the perfect moment.
That 100-plus knock wasn’t just another individual milestone: it was de Kock’s seventh ODI hundred against India. No other batter has managed more centuries against India in ODIs, placing him at the top of that exclusive list.
Shattering and Matching Records
With this century, de Kock didn’t just notch one more ton — he also matched or broke several significant ODI records. Firstly, by scoring seven hundreds against India, he equalled Sanath Jayasuriya’s long-standing record for the most ODI hundreds against India. Yet unlike Jayasuriya, who needed 85 innings to reach that mark, de Kock achieved it in far fewer innings (23), underlining the efficiency and consistency of his performances.
What’s more, this century added to de Kock’s tally as a visiting batsman — one of the most by any batter abroad — reinforcing his reputation as a dangerous opener on foreign soil.
Also notable: as a wicket-keeper batsman, de Kock now stands among the most prolific century makers in ODIs. His latest hundred further strengthens his place among the elite, improving his conversion rate and cementing him as a formidable batting wicket-keeper in white-ball cricket.
Cementing His Legacy
The timing and context of this century — in a series decider against a strong Indian side, away from home — make this innings particularly significant. It underscored his ability to deliver under pressure, especially when the stakes are highest, highlighting him as not just a great talent, but a match-winner.
Moreover, by equalling and surpassing some of the legendary names in ODI history, de Kock is reinforcing his status among cricket’s elite. Seven centuries against India, prolific scoring abroad, and consistency as a wicket-keeper batsman — these are not just numbers, but a testament to his sustained excellence over time.
In short, this knock added another chapter to de Kock’s already illustrious career: one that combines power, precision, and consistency — especially when it matters most.
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