The Story:
South Africa star AB de Villiers is reportedly expected to retire from Test cricket as early as August unless Cricket South Africa (CSA) can convince him to continue playing in the longest format of the game.
In an attempt to remain injury-free and win major silverwares in the limited-overs of the game, the explosive batsman has taken a break from Test cricket. The Protea star had missed the Test series against Australia, Sri Lanka and New Zealand due to an elbow injury but returned to white ball cricket earlier this year. And although he was plying his trade in the limited-overs format, he ruled himself out of the upcoming Test series against England and Bangladesh, respectively.
But despite the self-imposed exile, the right-handed batsman never talked about his retirement plans.
(READ: I Haven’t Retired From Test, Says An Indecisive AB de Villiers)
However, ESPNcricinfo has reported the batsman can hang up his boots as early as in August.
Decision On Future Soon:
The news outlet claimed that de Villiers is contemplating bringing down curtains on his Test career when he meets CSA officials following the appointment of a new coach in August.
( Watch: MS Dhoni’s Lighting Quick Run-Out To Dismiss AB de Villiers Cheaply)
De Villiers has it made clear that his aspirations of leading his team to World Cup glory and with the next showpiece event of the game still two years away, the 33-year old can well end his Test career to remain in shape for the tournament. Moreover, before leaving England, de Villiers had made it clear he would decide his cricket future in August.
“I am going to meet with CSA (Cricket South Africa) in August, and that will decide my (international) future,” de Villiers told reporters after the third T20I against England.
“We will see what works for both parties. We are not going to pick and choose games, but we are going to make a final decision about what happens for the next few years,” he had added.
Russell Domingo’s Exit To Play A Key Role:
Current South Africa head coach Russell Domingo’s contract will expire after the conclusion of the England tour and as per the reports, the 42-year-old has not reapplied for the post despite enjoying good support from the players.
And with Domingo unlikely to extend his stay with the Proteas, it can play a key role in de Villiers’ taking the decision on his future.
The Pressure Of Playing Franchise Cricket:
One of the world’s leading players in all three international formats, de Villiers is in demand in the T20 leagues across the globe and he has not shied away from plying his trade in the lucrative leagues too. And with the injuries taking a toll on his body, he might bid adieu to Test cricket to prolong his career in shorter versions of the game.
(Watch: AB de Villiers’ One-Handed Stunner To Dismiss Kusal Mendis)
He plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore and Barbados Tridents in IPL and CPL, respectively and is one of the marquee players in South Africa’s upcoming T20 league.