AB de Villiers announced his retirement from international cricket in May 2018. He hanged his boots for spending some more time with his family and for giving the future generations of Cricket South Africa a chance.
With former Proteas cricketers, Mark Boucher and Graeme Smith, taking over as head coach and director of cricket respectively, De Villiers’ comeback seems a possibility.
Boucher had said that he was open to getting de Villiers back into the T20 side. Brian McMillan is another such South African legend who has expressed his desire to see ABD’s possible return to the South African squad.
“AB de Villiers is one of the greatest cricketers to emerge from the region, and South Africa need him back as quickly as possible. I would absolutely be in favour of AB de Villiers making a comeback to South Africa’s T20 side with the T20 World Cup in mind,” the former South Africa all-rounder said while talking to Sport24.
“For me, the 36-year-old is one of the greatest ever cricketers from South Africa. What I like most about him is his attitude, performances and winning way. Everything about De Villiers epitomises class, and his winning way is rounded off with enjoyment,” McMillan added.
De Villiers has been keeping himself busy by playing T20 leagues around the world. The former South Africa batsman made his Big Bash League (BBL) debut this year and was gearing for the 13th season of Indian Premier League (IPL), which has been suspended until April 15 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
ABD himself made it clear that he is thinking about a U-turn on his retirement decision with eyes on the upcoming T20 World Cup.
“It’s a long way away still, and plenty can happen – there’s the IPL coming up, I’ve still got to be in form at that time,” De Villiers had told cricket.com.au during the BBL.
“So I’m thinking of throwing my name in the hat and hoping that everything will work out.”
