Ab de Villiers is undoubtedly one of best cricketers of this generation and the way he served his nation in the game of cricket is really commendable. He recently surprised everyone when he made an announcement that he would love to represent South Africa one more time in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup in Australia later this year.
Commenting on the matter, the acting director of Cricket South Africa (CSA), Graeme Smith, has noted that the management really needs to discus about this matter as De Villiers’s presence in the team could pose some big problem for the opposition.
Smith further stated that it would be silly if no one talked about De Villiers and his willingness to play for the Proteas once again. The good news is that the discussions are happening and the doors are open for De Villiers.
“I think it is great that AB has expressed his desire to be back in the system. Those chats (with De Villiers) aren’t formal, but we are looking at options around the T20 World Cup. We would be stupid not to look at the free agents who play in most T20 around the world,” said Smith.
De Villiers played his last T20 International in 2017 against Bangladesh. And this is the second time, he has made such remarks. Prior to the 2019 World Cup, the right-hand batsman noted that he wants to play for his nation but was denied the opportunity.
Smith also had to say something about the recent changes made in the ODI squad. Faf du Plessis has been omitted from the side and Quinton de Kock has been given the leadership duties.
He shared that Du Plessis will not be a part of the 2023 World Cup and the team has to find a new leader for the upcoming ICC tour tournaments.
“We see him playing a role, but from a leadership perspective, we see an opportunity to move forward in the one-day arena. And Faf is honest he won’t be around in 2023. Leadership has been an issue in South African cricket, and we felt we should give Quinnie an opportunity,” added Smith.
The fourth and the final Test between South Africa and England will take place from Friday (Jan 24) at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
