AB de Villiers Confirms his Availability in Tests Until May 2019
Published - 14 Mar 2018, 04:53 PM | Updated - 22 Aug 2024, 11:50 PM
South Africa’s ace batsman AB de Villiers is scheduled to stick to Test cricket at least until the World Cup next year.
With the retirement of Morne Morkel, there were growing rumours about AB’s departure from Tests as well.
While commentating in the infamous Durban Test, SuperSports broadcaster Mike Haysman claimed the ongoing series between South Africa and Australia might be AB’s last in Test cricket.
According to Sports24, De Villiers, who was part of an updated list of 18 CSA-contracted players to mid-2019, will be available across the board.
However, the stalwarts workload would be monitored judiciously henceforth. Which means AB might have to sacrifice T20Is in the future to accommodate his presence in the ODIs and Test matches?
In long-term plans, this move might be successful, as T20Is for AB de Villiers is not considered his stronger suit. Furthermore, the next T20 World Cup is chalked out to be held in Australia in 2020.
AB played non-stop cricket since making debut in 2004 until January 2016
Moreover, his presence in the Protean side until at least ICC World Cup of 2019 in England and Wales is indeed a major boost for the rainbow nation.
Between January 2016 to December last year, AB de Villiers was selective in his approach while representing South Africa. In other words, AB opted out of Test cricket to remain available in coloured clothing.
The South African premier batsman has been playing non-stop cricket since making his debut at PE against England. It was back in 2004, which was physically draining for the champion player.
De Villiers admitted that he was “just tired of playing … I was flat, physically and mentally”. Him being a father recently added to his stress.
That said, AB stated he felt rejuvenated again this season while starring against Zimbabwe. AB smashed important knocks against India and Australia. The evidence remains firm, as he recently scored a sensational Test ton against Australia.
AB de Villiers scored a hundred after three years and also entered amongst the top ten Test batsman in the ICC rankings.
