Quinton de Kock Seeks Mid-IPL Break Amidst Underwhelming Performance
De Kock's underwhelming performance and desire for a break may impact KKR's chances, while Bartlett's debut and error have added a new layer of excitement to the tournament, with the Australian fast bowler's skills and KKR's team strategy being closely watched by fans and critics alike.
Quinton de Kock, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter, has expressed his desire to take a break midway through the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, citing a need for relaxation, despite enjoying his time with the team and finding it easy to settle in.
De Kock's performance in the tournament so far has been underwhelming, with scores of 4, 97 not out, 1, 1, 15, and 23, which may have contributed to his desire for a break. He was brought in as a substitute for Phil Salt, who joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). In a recent match, KKR faced Punjab Kings, where Xavier Bartlett made his IPL debut, taking a wicket in his first over and contributing with the bat, scoring 11 runs off 15 balls.
Bartlett, a 26-year-old Australian fast bowler, replaced injured Lockie Ferguson and rose through the ranks, playing for Queensland and Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League, where he was the leading wicket-taker in 2023-24. However, he made a bizarre throwing error in the match against KKR, gifting them 5 runs due to a dew-caused mistake. Meanwhile, De Kock's comments come as Kevin Pietersen, the mentor of Delhi Capitals, is also taking a break from the tournament to visit the Maldives.
As the IPL 2025 continues, it remains to be seen how De Kock's break will affect his performance and the team's overall standing in the tournament. With his desire for relaxation and the upcoming matches, KKR's strategy and team dynamics will be worth watching in the coming days.