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Former South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock has named his all-time left-handers’ XI, which features two players from Pakistan and one from India.
Openers:
Quinton de Kock picked a power-packed opening duo in Matthew Hayden and Sanath Jayasuriya. Hayden, the imposing Australian left-hander, scored over 15,000 international runs with 40 centuries, known for his dominance, particularly in Test cricket. Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka’s explosive trailblazer, revolutionized ODI batting with his aggressive style, amassing more than 21,000 runs and taking 440 wickets across formats.
Joining them behind the stumps is de Kock himself, who has surpassed 17,000 international runs and notched up 30 centuries. Recognized as one of the finest left-handed batters of the modern era, he also brings world-class wicketkeeping skills to his all-time XI.
Middle order:
At No. 3 and 4, Quinton de Kock has chosen two legendary left-handers – Kumar Sangakkara and Michael Hussey. Sangakkara, one of the greatest batters in cricket history, amassed over 28,000 international runs and 63 centuries, cementing his legacy as a Sri Lankan icon. Batting alongside him is Hussey, fondly known as “Mr. Cricket”, who scored 12,398 runs across formats and earned a reputation as a reliable finisher, especially in high-pressure situations.
The only Indian in De Kock’s XI is Ravindra Jadeja. The all-rounder has contributed over 6,000 international runs and taken more than 550 wickets across formats. Jadeja’s three-dimensional skills—batting, left-arm spin, and electrifying fielding—make him an invaluable asset in any XI.
The only Indian to feature in Quinton de Kock’s all-time XI is Ravindra Jadeja. Renowned for his all-round brilliance, Jadeja has contributed over 6,000 international runs and claimed more than 550 wickets across formats. His versatility—combining reliable lower-order batting, accurate left-arm spin, and world-class fielding—makes him a true three-dimensional player and an indispensable asset in any team lineup.
Dynamic bowling attack
Quinton de Kock’s bowling lineup features a legendary mix of pace and spin. Wasim Akram, Pakistan’s “Sultan of Swing,” leads the attack with a staggering 916 international wickets, widely regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers in history. Fellow Pakistani Mohammad Amir brings flair and big-match temperament, having taken 259 wickets, including iconic performances in ICC events.
From Sri Lanka, Chaminda Vaas adds precision and control, claiming 761 wickets with his mastery of the new ball, while Rangana Herath, a left-arm spin maestro, contributed 433 Test wickets, making him one of the game’s most consistent spinners. Completing the attack is Mitchell Johnson, the fearsome Australian quick, who rattled batters with raw pace and bounce, finishing with 590 international wickets. Together, this attack combines swing, speed, and spin in a formidable unit.
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
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
