2019 World Cup: Faf du Plessis Dismisses Return of Ab de Villiers

Updated - 24 Oct 2018, 03:55 PM

Ab de Villiers, Faf du Plessis, 2019 World Cup
Getty Images

Recently, the reports surfaced that AB de Villiers will take a final call on his return to international cricket in January. The news has been the instant viral story on social media, as the cricket fanatics went crazy to hear the return of AB de Villiers. However, South African skipperFaf du Plessis poured cold water on it.

It is also learnt from the reports that AB de Villiers will also have a look in taking up the coaching or support staff role to assist South Africa in the upcoming 2019 World Cup. However, Faf du Plessis denies that as well.

We want AB de Villiers as a player, not in management – Faf du Plessis

Speaking on the rumours, Faf du Plessis in his interview with Network 24 quoted saying they can’t see AB de Villiers helping the team in the management or support staff.

Faf du Plessis, AB de Villiers, 2019 World Cup
Faf du Plessis Image Courtesy: Getty Images

Instead, they would love to see AB de Villiers in the playing XI for the 2019 World Cup in England and Wales. However, he also confirmed Mr 360º return to international cricket is just rumour.

”If we wanted him involved in some capacity in the group then it would be as a player. It won’t make sense for me to just have AB as part of the management or coaching team. There is, in any case, enough members in our management team. To only have AB there to throw balls won’t suffice,” Faf du Plessis quoted.

AB de Villiers, 2019 World Cup
AB de Villiers Credits – Getty Images

The rumours took the boost when reports surfaced that ABD is likely to play for upcoming Mzansi Super League. It gave hopes to the fans that AB de Villiers is eyeing to make a return during the grand event.

However, it is officially confirmed by Faf du Plessis that the return of de Villiers in the coaching staff isn’t going to happen. Meanwhile, it would be interesting to see whether the board makes a plea to play him ahead of the 2019 World Cup.

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South Africa national cricket team