Lucknow Super Giants captain KL Rahul says he “feels bad” about Quinton de Kock’s continued omission from the team.

The Proteas wicketkeeper-batsman missed Lucknow’s first two matches of the 2023 campaign while on international duty, which opened the door for the West Indies’ Kyle Mayers to take his spot.

Mayers is the Super Giants’ leading run-scorer after six matches, with 219 at an average of 36.50 and a strike rate of 154.22.

On Wednesday, he scored 51 off 42 balls against the Rajasthan Royals.

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“It’s very unfortunate that someone like Quinton has to sit out,” Rahul said at the toss. “But unfortunately, there are only four foreign players [per XI] that can play in this competition.

“He’ll just have to wait for some more time. Kyle is doing really well. It’s a bit unfortunate. You feel bad. I’ve enjoyed playing and enjoyed opening with Quinton, but for now, he’s still not playing.”

De Kock told Star Sports it had “been quite relaxed” for him so far in India.

“I’m not quite used to being on the side for so long but it’s all good – the team’s doing really well so I guess that’s the most important thing.

“It’s been chilled. I’ve made a couple more friends sitting on the side, learned a lot more with the boys and it’s been fun watching the guys.”

De Kock said he had still been working hard, though.

“Put it this way: I don’t think I’ve gymed, run and practised as much as I have in the last two in my whole career.”