South African superstar AB de Villiers had taken a sudden retirement from international cricket last year. Considering his age and the form at that time, it came in as a shock to many. However, he continued playing the T20 Leagues around the world like IPL and MSL.
Last year, before the ODI World Cup, there were speculations that he might come out of the retirement and play for South Africa again. The state of South African cricket wasn’t that good going into the tournament. So, AB de Villiers wanted to return and strengthen the squad. However, the selectors deemed it to be too late and didn’t allow that to happen.
South Africa’s poor run
South Africa had a poor time in the World Cup as they failed to make it to the semi-finals. The Proteas had suffered in other formats as well last year. They lost the Test series at home against Sri Lanka and were hammered by India 3-0 on the tour. There was a state of turmoil in South African cricket after a string of poor performances.
Recently, there were a few changes in the cricket board. The former captain Graeme Smith became the Director of Cricket while Mark Boucher was appointed as the Coach. The new administration has brought a ray of hope for the struggling nation.
AB de Villiers confirmed he wishes to return
In the last few days, another news has been making rounds that AB de Villiers might return for the T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in Australia later this year. He was believed to be in conversation with the new management about the same. However, there was no official confirmation about that.
But now, the man himself has confirmed his desire to represent his country again. These days, de Villiers is playing for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League. During the match against Adelaide Strikers, he was was talking to the commentators while fielding. The obvious question was put forward to him whether he would put on the South African jersey again. The 35-year-old has put an end to the rumours himself.
AB mentioned that he is in talks with Boucher and wishes to play for South Africa in the T20 World Cup. He said that playing for South Africa was never a problem and he would love to do that again. The right-hander went on to say that if all goes well, he would play for the Proteas in the tournament. But he admitted that he has to score some runs to prove his form and needs to stay to fit to be in contention.
When asked whether he would consider playing other formats as well, he replied that T20 cricket would be all that he would look to play now. However, watching some of the recent Test matches of South Africa, he wished he was a part of the team then. But given his age, he thinks he is done with the other two bigger formats and eyes only the shortest format.
This definitely comes in as great news for all the ABD fans around the world. Despite his retirement, he still continues to be one of the most popular cricketers on the globe. Those who were gutted after his premature retirement last year, must be thrilled to see him back. Also, the South African cricket would also benefit having the experienced lad back in the side for the mega event.
