Former South Africa cricketer AB de Villiers recently revealed that he wants to come back in the national side to play the T20I World Cup (WC) scheduled to be played in Australia later this year. The right-handed batsman is currently playing in Big Bash League (BBL) for Brisbane Heat.
Now, Cricket South Africa’s (CSA) director Graeme Smith has expressed that it would be silly not to discuss De Villiers’ willingness to play for the Proteas team. Smith said that discussions on his former team mate’s inclusion are happening, and the door is still 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.
The CSA director was also asked questions regarding the recent change in the limited over the squad and Faf du Plessis’ exclusion from the team. Smith answered that Faf wouldn’t be around in 2023 WC, so we’ve to find alternatives, and Quinton de Kock is perfect for this role.
“It has been our intention to put a succession plan in place for 2023. 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.
Smith showered praiseworthy comments for the new captain of the Proteas team and said that he’s our go-to guy.
“Tactically, he’s good, but there are areas of his leadership that he needs to grow and develop. He is the right guy at this stage to take the team forward,” Smith added further.
South Africa are currently facing the challenge of England in the four-match Test series, which they are trailing by 2-1.
The fourth and the final Test will take place from Friday (Jan 24) at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
