De Kock wants senior players to ‘pass on knowledge to youngsters’

De Kock also confirmed that du Plessis’s return for the three-match ODI series against India was very much a welcome one.

Du Plessis had been rested for the series against Australia, which South Africa won 3-0, and his return now will only further boost the side’s confidence for a tough series against a top side. “Obviously, Faf has come back. He plays a big role for us from the leadership point of view,” de Kock said on the eve of the first ODI in Dharamsala. “He is here to help out the younger guys in the team. He adds a lot of value for us. He also knows he has a lot of value to give to this team. His experience will be a big help for us this series.

“We understand that we are coming here with quite an inexperienced side in these conditions, but it’s important Faf, me and David Miller help out these guys, lead the way, pass on our knowledge to the youngsters.”

De Kock said that the team management is still in the process of figuring out a batting position for the former captain, and hoped his team can carry the confidence forward from their triumph against Australia. “Just glad to have him back with us,” de Kock said of du Plessis. We are undecided where he is going to bat at the moment, but we will come up with the decision later.

“India is an unbelievable team, they have got great balance, but I am sure we are also coming here with a lot of confidence.”