South African cricketer AB de Villiers has issued a clarification regarding the controversy around him for allegedly having demanded to play for the South African cricket team in the World Cup 2019. He posted the clarification on his Twitter account today.
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) July 12, 2019
De Villiers who had announced his retirement in May 2018 said he did not demand to be included in the South African team before the World Cup. He clarified during his private conversation with his school friend and cricketer Faf du Plessis, he had merely offered to be available if required.
He said since South African cricket team is out of the World cup race and will not be distracted by this disclosure, so he has decided to speak up against the unjustified criticism against him. De Villiers asserted he did not try to force his way into the World Cup team nor did he expect to be included. He alleged that contents of his private conversation with Plessis were suddenly revealed to the media after the Proteas lost to India. This was done to cast him in the worst possible light. He clarified that his private conversation was neither leaked by Plessis nor him.
De Villiers further added that he was unfairly called as arrogant, selfish and indecisive but his conscience was clear. He concluded by extending his support for the South African cricket team. He said he would remain available for the team for support and assistance.
