Quinton de Kock's presence in the upcoming white-ball home series against India in December is in doubt due to his prior commitments in the Big Bash League (BBL), according to ESPNcricinfo.
De Kock, who was signed by the Melbourne Renegades for the BBL, is set to participate in the tournament, which coincides with the India series scheduled from December 10th to 21st.
Cricket South Africa was aware of de Kock's involvement in the BBL draft, but given his central contract with the board, they anticipate his primary commitment should be to the national team, according to the report.
"They are currently in talks with de Kock and several other players about managing their schedule to accommodate leagues while prioritising international cricket," the report stated.
CSA's preference is for de Kock to make himself available for the T20Is against India scheduled for December 10, 12, and 14. These are South Africa's sole T20I fixtures ahead of their participation in the T20 World Cup next year, to be held in the West Indies and the USA.
This would entail de Kock being available for a total of just six matches with the Renegades.
"We might get eight games (from him)," Renegades' general manager James Rosengarten had said when asked about de Kock's availability for the India series.
(AI image)
There is a possibility that CSA might negotiate arrangements that permit some of their most prominent players to participate in various leagues while skipping international duties, with the aim of ensuring their availability for significant events like World Cups and averting any early retirements.
De Kock, in a surprising move, had announced his retirement from Test cricket in December last year following the birth of his daughter.
(With agency inputs)
