In a sensational display of wicketkeeping prowess, Quinton de Kock, the Proteas wicketkeeper, etched his name in history by matching the records set by cricketing legends Adam Gilchrist and Sarfaraz Ahmed. His outstanding performance unfolded during the intense showdown between South Africa and Afghanistan at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
De Kock’s brilliance on the field saw him make a significant impact, effecting a stunning total of six dismissals in the game, all secured through catches behind the stumps. This extraordinary achievement positions him shoulder to shoulder with the revered Adam Gilchrist, the pioneer wicketkeeper who first set this remarkable record back in the 2003 World Cup against Namibia.
Back in 2003, Gilchrist showcased his expertise, claiming six dismissals during Australia’s clash against Namibia. The thrilling game witnessed a powerful display as Australia set a challenging target of 301 runs and ultimately bowled out Namibia for a mere 45 runs, with legendary bowler Glenn McGrath bagging an impressive 7 for 15. His six catches behind the stumps highlighted Gilchrist’s instrumental role in the victory.
The echo of this astonishing record was heard again in the 2015 World Cup when former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed mirrored Gilchrist’s feat. During the clash against South Africa, Sarfaraz seized six catches, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s successful defense of a modest 223-run total.
Notably, this isn’t the first time the talented South African wicketkeeper has showcased such exceptional skill. He had previously achieved six dismissals in One Day Internationals (ODIs) for South Africa against Pakistan in Cape Town in 2007 and against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui in 2014.
With his recent performance in Ahmedabad, de Kock has joined the esteemed league of record-holders, sharing the title for the most wicketkeeping dismissals in a World Cup match alongside the iconic Adam Gilchrist and Sarfaraz Ahmed.
Most wicketkeeping dismissals in an ODI for South Africa:
6 – Mark Boucher vs PAK, Cape Town, 2007
6 – Quinton de Kock vs NZ, Mount Maunganui, 2014
6 – Quinton de Kock vs AFG, Ahmedabad, 2023
Most wicketkeeping dismissals in a World Cup match:
6 – Adam Gilchrist (AUS) vs NAM, Potchefstroom, 2003
6 – Sarfaraz Ahmed (PAK) vs SA, Auckland, 2015
6 – Quinton de Kock (SA) vs AFG, Ahmedabad, 2023
