Ryan Rickelton Reveals Why Quinton de Kock Was Upset Following MI vs LSG Clash
A Rising Star at the Wankhede
In the high-octane environment of the IPL 2026, few players have captured the imagination of cricket fans quite like Ryan Rickelton. The 29-year-old South African wicketkeeper-batter has been in scintillating form for the Mumbai Indians, culminating in a breathtaking 83 off just 32 balls against the Lucknow Super Giants at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. This knock wasn’t just a display of power; it was a continuation of a rich vein of form that has seen him score 123 against Sunrisers Hyderabad and 37 against Chennai Super Kings in his last three outings.
The “Abuse” from a Mentor
Despite the brilliance of his innings against LSG, which included six boundaries and eight massive sixes, Rickelton’s departure in the 11th over off Mohsin Khan—caught by Josh Inglis—left a sour taste for one specific observer. Speaking to the media after the game, Rickelton revealed that his fellow Proteas star and MI teammate, Quinton de Kock, was far from pleased.
“He (Quinton de Kock) was the first person to abuse me after I got out,” Rickelton shared with a laugh. “He said that I threw an easy chance to score a century. He is very supportive, but he knows what I am capable of and he expects high standards.” This candid revelation highlights the unique camaraderie between the two South African stars, proving that beneath the competitive exterior of the IPL, there remains a deep mentorship and mutual push for excellence.
A Remarkable Turnaround
The journey to this current form has not been straightforward for the Johannesburg-born cricketer. After being acquired by the Ambani-owned franchise ahead of the 2025 season, Rickelton experienced a lukewarm debut campaign, managing 388 runs across 14 matches at an average of 29. However, the 2026 edition has seen a complete metamorphosis. With 380 runs in just eight games, an average of 54, and a staggering strike rate of 190, Rickelton has solidified his place as one of the most dangerous openers in the league.
Overcoming the Shadow of Greatness
Rickelton’s path back to the starting XI was paved by a stroke of misfortune for others. Initially, the team balance and the presence of established stars made it difficult for him to secure a permanent spot. “To have a guy of his (de Kock’s) stature warming the benches at the start of the season makes it tricky,” Rickelton noted. “It is also a challenge when a guy that good doesn’t get a chance to play, and everyone wants the team to pick him. Such challenges can put pressure on you, and I got a chance when he suffered an injury to his hand.”
Since that opportunity arose, Rickelton hasn’t looked back. He kicked off his resurgence with a commanding 81 against KKR and has maintained that intensity, proving that the pressure of replacing a veteran of de Kock’s caliber only served to sharpen his focus rather than break his resolve.
Ambitions for the Future
Beyond his individual performance, Rickelton has expressed a deep loyalty to the Mumbai Indians franchise. Having played for MI Cape Town in the SA20 alongside teammates like Corbin Bosch and Trent Boult, he sees his future deeply intertwined with the MI brand. “I want to try and be part of this franchise globally as well,” he stated. “There was a chance to back my game and my skills, and I am grateful for the trust the management has shown in me.”
As the business end of the IPL 2026 approaches, Mumbai Indians fans will be hoping that Rickelton continues to convert those “easy chances” into centuries, and that he keeps receiving that much-needed tough love from his mentor, Quinton de Kock.
