Amid the huge debate over Fakhar Zaman’s controversial run-out involving Quinton de Kock, New Zealand fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan has come out in support of underfire South African wicket-keeper batsman as he found Pakistan opener’s mistake in the incident in Johannesburg.
The 30-year-old was playing one of the best innings in his career and was close to notching up his second ODI double ton, but De Kock’s “fake fielding” act ended his incredible innings to 193 as Pakistan fell 17-run short of their target of 342 against South Africa in the second ODI on Sunday, April 4.
In the first ball of the final over in the second ODI, De Kock attempted to distract or deceive Zaman as he was appeared to suggest that the ball was going towards the non-striker end which prompted the Pakistan batsman to slow down.
But once he realized the ball was coming his way, it was too late, as a direct hit from Aiden Markram at long-off caught him short of the crease, bringing his incredible innings to an end.
The incident divided the cricket world into two parts as many believed De Kock’s actions were on the “spirit of cricket” while some criticized the Proteas star for his intentions of distracting, or deceiving Zaman.
Recently, the renowned commentator Alan Wilkins has expressed his disappointment over De Kock's actions on Twitter, but McClenaghan didn’t agree with a former English county player’s take on the matter, suggesting people must check the traffic before stepping onto a road.
Wilkins tweeted, “The more I see this the more I dislike the obvious deception. #SAvPAK.”
The Kiwi replied to Wilkins on Twitter: “All for. Check both ways before crossing the road.”
In another tweet, McClenaghan said De Kock is a terrible golfer but not a cheat while hailing Zaman for his amazing knock in the second ODI that won by the hosts to level the three-match ODI series 1-1 with the decider to be played on April 7 (Wednesday) in Centurion.
