Former South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock has revealed his dream all-time left-handers’ XI, featuring some of the greatest names to have ever played the game. Known for his aggressive batting and sharp cricketing brain, De Kock’s lineup has a perfect balance of explosive openers, reliable middle-order batters, and a lethal bowling attack. Interestingly, only one Indian cricketer has made it into his star-studded XI.
Quinton de Kock’s all-time left-handers’ XI
Star openers
De Kock went with two destructive openers—Matthew Hayden and Sanath Jayasuriya. Hayden, the towering Australian, scored over 15,000 runs across formats with 40 international centuries, and was feared for his dominance in Tests. Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka’s trailblazer, amassed more than 21,000 international runs and 440 wickets, redefining batting in ODIs with his fearless stroke play.
Alongside them, Quinton de Kock himself takes the gloves. The South African has already crossed 17,000 international runs with 30 centuries and is regarded as one of the finest modern-day left-handers.
Solid middle order
At No. 3 and 4, De Kock has slotted in two stalwarts—Kumar Sangakkara and Michael Hussey. Sangakkara, widely considered among the greatest batters of all time, piled up over 28,000 runs with 63 centuries, making him Sri Lanka’s batting giant. Hussey, known as “Mr. Cricket”, scored 12,398 international runs and built a reputation for finishing games under pressure.
Only Indian star in De Kock’s XI
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.
Dynamic bowling attack
The bowling department is stacked with legends. Wasim Akram, Pakistan’s “Sultan of Swing,” claimed 916 wickets in international cricket and remains one of the greatest fast bowlers ever. His countryman Mohammad Amir added flair with 259 wickets, including memorable spells in ICC tournaments.
Sri Lankan spearhead Chaminda Vaas picked up 761 wickets, renowned for his accuracy with the new ball. To support him, left-arm spin wizard Rangana Herath delivered consistency with 433 Test wickets, making him one of the most successful spinners in history. Rounding off the attack is Australia’s fiery quick Mitchell Johnson, who bagged 590 wickets and was a nightmare for batters with his raw pace and bounce.
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
