Quinton de Kock doubtful for the first Test against India

Fireworks are expected as two top-ranked teams are set to face each other. India has played quality cricket over the past few months but all in favourable conditions of the subcontinent. India has their worries as opener Shikhar Dhawan hurt his left ankle ahead of the tour to South Africa. The Indian opener has travelled with the side to South Africa but his place in the side remains uncertain due to an injury.

The Proteas also have their worries as their wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock is having issues with his hamstring. The wicketkeeper-batsman pulled out while batting against Zimbabwe in the first ever four-day test which eventually ended in two days. de Kock had problems with his hamstring while batting and was dismissed cheaply for 24. According to latest reports, de Kock underwent scans which revealed he has strained his right hamstring. If deemed unfit, Dane Vilas might be called in as a replacement.

South Africa left stranded?

De Kock’s absence against Zimbabwe did not hurt the hosts as they rattled them in two days. The wicketkeeper-batsman has often scored heavily against the Indians, he scored three centuries in three one day internationals when India toured South Africa back in 2013.

The 25-year-old is a valuable asset for South Africa, he possesses brilliant keeping skills and can be acrobatic at times. His runs lower down the order often come in handy for the Proteas, he can play both aggressively and defensively. The wicketkeeper would be required in the Test series due to his vital contribution down the order, and a consistent performer, especially against team India.

Dane Vilas is an expected to replace De Kock. Dane Vilas is an experienced wicketkeeper but his batting ability hasn’t been tested at the international level. He averages only 10.44 in 9 test innings that he has played. On the other hand, the 32-year-old Vilas has proved himself in first-class cricket, he averages around 40 in FC cricket. South Africa will want their regular wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock to be fit for the series against India, Dane Vilas will be eager for an opportunity to prove himself.

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