It was too late to include AB de Villiers: Faf
The South African fans were shocked to know that retired star batsman AB de Villiers was looking to make a return, to play the ICC World Cup 2019. However, they never saw him on the field, as Cricket South Africa (CSA) didn't approve his inclusion. While many say he was way too late to script a return, here's what skipper Faf du Plessis said.
Faf du Plessis reveals AB was too late
South African skipper Faf du Plessis on Tuesday cleared the air, saying that while AB de Villiers did apply for a return, he was way too late to be considered. He also said that the two had a telephonic conversation on the same during IPL 2019. As Faf checked it with coach and selectors, he was informed that the team was 99% ready.
Coach and selectors say it was too late for AB
"I said to him, 'I think it is too late but I will check in with the coach and the selectors'. When I spoke to the coach and the selectors, they all agreed that it was way too late to change the team," said Faf.
Faf feels the news didn't have a negative impact
Faf also said that while the news was happy and sad in equal measures, it didn't have a negative impact on the side. He revealed that following the clarification, everything was fine and the team moved on with its usual business. "But, it is stuff like that generally you feel like it can make you, give you direction in your team," he added.
CSA sends out official statement over this situation
AB should have been more alert regarding his return
Analyzing by the statements by CSA and Faf, the author feels that AB is somewhat himself to be blamed for the howler. Having been associated with the team and CSA for so long, he should have had a fair idea of how things work. He should have prepared himself and his return plan accordingly, rather than pushing himself at the last moment.
Faf and boys eye strong stint in CWC remainder
As of now, South Africa are off to a terrible start in the World Cup, losing their opening three games. The fourth game was washed out, and as a result, earned them a point, while they are still in search for their opening win. The teams would definitely need to re-group and ponder on their ongoing World Cup issue, rather than this situation.
