Why Quinton de Kock is Not Keeping After Scoring 112 Runs in MI vs PBKS?

Mumbai Indians are clashing against Punjab Kings in the 24th match of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Asked to bat first, the five-time champions put up a great batting show and ended up scoring 195 runs in the first innings, thanks to a magnificent century by Quinton de Kock, who was seen playing his first match of the season as Rohit Sharma missed out the match due to injury. However, the left-handed batter didn't come out to field as Ryan Rickelton was seen keeping behind the wickets.

Why Quinton de Kock is Not Keeping Today Against PBKS?

In the 2nd innings of MI vs PBKS IPL 2026, the decision of Quinton de Kock not keeping was pretty reasonable. Having just played a demanding innings where he scored a century and remained unbeaten after opening the innings, MI management opted to avoid putting additional physical strain on him in the second innings.

Wicketkeeping for 20 overs, especially after spending time at the crease for 20 overs, can lead to fatigue and cramps. To prevent any such issues, MI assigned keeping duties to Rickelton while allowing de Kock to recover and stay fresh for the upcoming matches. Also, Rickelton had been handling wicketkeeping duties in previous matches, so it won't make any difference for the five-time champions.

Quinton de Kock's Innings Helps MI Put 195

Quinton de Kock's sensational innings proved to be the backbone of the Mumbai Indians' total as they posted a strong 195/6 against Punjab Kings. Making his first appearance of the season after being benched in the first four matches, the left-handed batter made a strong statement right away as one of the best wicket keeper in IPL. Walking in as an opener, he started cautiously as MI slipped to 15/2 during the third over.

De Kock then went on to smash an unbeaten 112 off just 60 balls, including eight fours and seven sixes, registering his third IPL century. His knock was perfectly complemented by Naman Dhir, who scored 50 off 31 balls, with the duo stitching a crucial 122-run partnership to revive the innings.