Should the Proteas Consult a Traditional Healer to Overcome Their ICC Tournament Jinx?
Quinton de Kock has proposed that the Proteas might benefit from visiting a sangoma or traditional healer before their next ICC event.
De Kock finds the ODI World Cup semi-final loss especially hard to accept.
Should the Proteas Seek Help from a Sangoma?
The defeat left De Kock baffled, prompting his suggestion that the team could be under a curse.
De Kock reflected on the loss as something that haunts you long after the event.
“Yeah, the defeat stings. We played such impressive cricket only to fall short in the semis…you start to wonder…if only you had done one or two things differently, could the outcome have been in our favor? It was a low-scoring yet thrilling game due to the high number of wickets, but sadly, we didn’t emerge victorious,” De Kock shared with RevSports.
“It’s deeply disappointing, especially since we had defied expectations early in the tournament, and that gave us a lot of confidence going into that match. But now, I’m really not sure. I think maybe South African cricketers should consult a traditional healer before participating in any future cricket World Cups. It’s tough to accept.”
De Kock on Not Seeking a New Central Contract
De Kock also mentioned that Cricket South Africa (CSA) attempted to offer him a T20Is-specific contract, but he did not see the value in being contractually bound.
“No, I never sought out a contract.
“I just want to enjoy playing cricket.
“I don’t wish to be tied down by a contract any longer.
“I want to play cricket on my own terms.
“And honestly, it doesn’t make any sense.
“Even with their contract offers, which they did make, signing for just one format, especially for a World Cup that happens every two years, didn’t appeal to me,” De Kock explained.
“I’m further along in my career. It would be better to bring in a younger player and invest in the youth, someone who could take over my role in other formats. If I were to think in cricketing terms, that’s the approach I would take.”
T20 World Cup Spot at Stake
De Kock acknowledges that he must work hard to secure a spot in the T20 World Cup team.
“He is keen to participate in the T20 World Cup, but he knows he has to prove himself. He’s determined to earn his place,” CSA’s director of cricket Enoch Nkwe was quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.
Proteas white-ball coach Rob Walter emphasized the importance of balancing international commitments with T20 league involvement.
“We’re navigating a cricket landscape that’s rapidly evolving, with leagues gaining strength and influence,” Walter explained to Sport24.
“The challenge is balancing national team duties with league commitments… this clash is inevitable and will persist. The key is managing the situation and understanding the needs of the players, especially as we approach the World Cup.
“One advantage is that our players will be competing in high-level T20 cricket leading up to the World Cup.”
