De Kock Unveils His All-Time Left-Handed XI

Former South African wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock has announced his dream team composed entirely of left-handed cricketers, featuring two prominent Pakistani players and one celebrated Indian.

De Kock strategically positioned himself to open the batting alongside former Australian powerhouse, Matthew Hayden. The crucial No. 3 and No. 4 slots are occupied by Sri Lankan legends, Sanath Jayasuriya and Kumar Sangakkara.

The middle order showcases the talents of former Australian batsman Michael Hussey and Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Pakistani pace icon Wasim Akram takes the No. 7 spot.

The bowling unit is a balanced combination of pace and spin. Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath is the sole specialist spinner, complemented by a trio of left-arm fast bowlers: Mitchell Johnson from Australia, Chaminda Vaas representing Sri Lanka, and Mohammad Amir from Pakistan.

Akram and Amir are highly esteemed as two of Pakistan’s most formidable left-arm pacers, recognized for their ability to produce substantial pace and swing, posing a significant challenge to batsmen.

Notably, Akram holds the distinction of being the second-highest wicket-taker in ODI history, amassing 502 wickets in 356 matches with an impressive economy rate of 3.89. He has also taken 414 wickets in 104 Test matches.

Amir has played in 36 Tests for Pakistan, securing 119 wickets. His ODI record includes 81 wickets in 61 matches, and he has also claimed 71 wickets in 62 T20Is.

After initially retiring in 2020, the 33-year-old made a comeback to international cricket for the 2024 T20 World Cup. However, he struggled to recapture his best form, managing only seven wickets in four matches with an economy rate of 4.50.

Following the tournament, Amir declared his retirement once again on December 14, 2024, citing a lack of backing and feeling marginalized by the Pakistan cricket administration.

Quinton de Kock’s all time left-handers’ XI:
  • Matthew Hayden
  • Quinton de Kock (WK)
  • Sanath Jayasuriya
  • Kumar Sangakkara
  • Mike Hussey
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Wasim Akram
  • Rangana Herath
  • Mohammad Amir
  • Chaminda Vaas
  • Mitchell Johnson