"It's just a matter of going out there and doing it again"

After a sedate start, Quinton de Kock has raised his game to get consistent runs for the Men in Blue & Gold. He has handled the mantle of being a top-order batsman and at the same time also managed to work behind the stumps with great efficiency.

Captaining the Proteas limited-overs side has surely played a key role in preparing him for different challenges. From being a super talented youngster to becoming a responsible batting prodigy, Quinton has come a long way. He has slowly upped his game and looks more astute and confident than ever.

It was in late 2018 when Quinton was acquired by MI in a trade-off with RCB. Ever since then, it has been a dream run for the wicket-keeper batsman, consistently piling up runs for his team.

A slow but steady start

Fast forward to 2020, Quinton started his IPL campaign with a quickfire 33 (20). The opener had earlier revealed that the lockdown hadn't allowed him to have a go with the bat. The lack of practice did take a toll as he couldn't get going in the next few matches.

With Chris Lynn as the reserve opener in the side, the pressure was mounting on him. The Mumbai Indians management backed him to the hilt and he repaid their faith. With MI having lost Rohit Sharma early at Sharjah, Quinton rose to the occasion with a fantastic knock of 67 (39).

Quinton de Kock or Consistent de Kock?

He backed it up with another half-century against Delhi Capitals, a match later. Forming a partnership with Suryakumar Yadav in the middle, he didn't allow the momentum to shift sides. He rued not being able to stay till the end and finish the game but was happy to finally be amongst the runs.

However, his best performance came in the next game against the Kolkata Knight Riders. He carried his bat throughout the innings with a spectacular 78* from just 44 balls. His application and grit in the middle meant skipper Rohit Sharma had to take a backseat. Not only did he bat the opposition out of the game with his aggressive style but also managed to register his highest knock of the season.

Quinton continued his scintillating form against Kings XI Punjab in Dubai. The left-handed batsman racked up his fourth half-century in five games. It was an important knock in the context of the game as MI had been reduced to 38/3 during the powerplay. He batted with valor and rescued them from a collapse.

Can he finish on a high for a second time?

His aggregate already stands at a staggering 322 which is also the highest by an MI cricketer this season so far. Quinton has already managed to establish himself as an integral part of the franchise. In a very short time, the 27-year old has created a significant impact in his Blue and Gold.

His captain Rohit wants him to bat freely and no wonder the southpaw has been at his rollicking best at the crease. With five more games left in the league stage, the spotlight will surely be on him. He has already made his mark in the season but can he push further and take the team to glory again? Can he better his run tally of 529 from 2019 this season? Only time will say.