South Africa’s wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock is likely to miss the last Test of the upcoming three-match Test series against India at home. 

As per the reports in ESPNCricinfo, it is learned that Quinton de Kock has applied for paternity leave as he and his wife Sasha are expecting the birth of their first child in January. 

With De Kock and his wife’s baby due in early January, there’s a possibility that the wicketkeeper batter can miss both the second and third Test, which will be played from 3rd January and 11th January respectively, considering the bio-bubble and quarantine restrictions. 

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South Africa's selection convener Victor Mpitsang confirmed to ESPNCricinfo that he expects de Kock "to miss the last Test"

If De Kock leaves the secure bio-bubble environment during the second Test, it will not be possible for him to come back into the bubble by the time the third Test match starts. It is expected that either Kyle Verreynne or Ryan Rickelton will play in de Kock's place. 

The Test series between South Africa and India will start from December 26 at SuperSport Park, Centurion followed by the second Test at Johannesburg from January 3 to 7. The final Test will take place in Cape Town from January 11 to 15.

After that, both teams will lock horns in three-match ODI series, which will be played from 19th January to 23rd January. 

(PTI inputs)