After apologising for his action and agreeing to take a knee for the BLM moment, South Africa wicketkeeper-batter has made his way back in side's Playing XI against Sri Lanka. De Kock had rocked the cricket world when he decided to opt out of the game against West Indies, also refusing to be a part of his team's anti-racism gesture.
De Kock later apologised to his team-mates and fans for the "hurt, confusion, and anger" he caused. He released a statement to explain his decision not to take the knee and also made himself available for selection for the rest of the tournament.
“If me taking a knee helps to educate others, and makes the lives of others better, I am more than happy to do so.”
“I did not, in any way, mean to disrespect anyone by not playing against West Indies, especially the West Indian team themselves. Maybe some people don't understand that we were just hit with this on Tuesday morning, on the way to a game. I am deeply sorry for all the hurt, confusion and anger that I have caused," he said in the statement.
Meanwhile, South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and opted to field against the Lankans, confirming De Kock's return to the set-up in place of Heinrich Klaasen.
"We are going to bowl first. Quinton comes in for Klaasen. The team is feeling much better, de Kock is in a much better state. The first 5 overs will be key for us. We are expecting the pitch to be different here in Sharjah. We are expecting it be a slow and low wicket," said Bavuma at the toss.
While dew wouldn't have any impact on the game, the outcome would be crucial for both South Africa and Sri Lanka as they aim to qualify for the semi-finals.