South Africa selection panel convener Linda Zondi speaks out on AB de Villiers selection controversy

A new controversy has snowballed in South Africa cricket after the Proteas slumped to their heart-breaking third consecutive defeat in World Cup 2019. On Wednesday, Faf du Plessis’ man were hammered by a strong Indian side by 6 wickets and that defeat now leaves them in a desperate situation of winning all their remaining clashes if they fancy a place in the semi-finals. But more than the defeat, it was the report on former SA international AB de Villiers which has left a bitter taste in the mouth of the Proteas fans.

It has been reported recently on ESPN Cricinfo that De Villiers, who had quit international cricket in May 2018, offered to play for the national side in the World Cup but was not entertained by the team management. The development reportedly happened just about when South Africa were ready to announce their final squad for the tournament. And Mr. 360 did not find a way to get back into the team for his inclusion was not fitting the scheme of things.

One, a year-long absence of the dashing batsman who still plays franchise cricket did not see him fitting the national side’s selection policies and also, his sudden inclusion would send a negative message to the younger players like Rassie van der Dussen.

Linda Zondi, convener of Cricket South Africa’s National Selection Panel, also spoke on the matter. According to Cricbuzz, Zondi said the news of De Villiers’ offer did not give them a viable option since it was received only on the day of the squad’s announcement. “Our squad was finalised and confirmed,” he was quoted as saying.

ABD chose to play in franchise leagues instead of the country, says panel

Zondi in fact issued a statement in which it was said, “I pleaded with AB de Villiers not to retire in 2018. Although there was a perception that he was picking and choosing when to play [for South Africa] – which was not true – I did give him the option to plan and monitor his season to get him to the World Cup fresh and in a good space. We made it clear that he would have to play during the home tours against Sri Lanka and Pakistan to be considered for selection, instead he signed to play in the Pakistan and Bangladesh Premier Leagues respectively. He turned down the offer and said he was at peace with his decision to retire.”

The official also said that AB is one of the best players in the world but added that it was also important to stick to the morals and principles and there was no regret in the decision that the panel had made on the batsman.

In another development on Thursday, de Villiers himself tweeted saying the need for the hour is to stand by the South African team and expressed optimism that the team will still do good. South Africa will play the West Indies in their next match in Southampton in June 10.