Cricket fans could witness the return of Faf du Plessis to international cricket as the seasoned South African batsman has expressed his availability for selection ahead of the T20 World Cup in 2024. Du Plessis has been absent from the international scene since 2021, having last played a Test match against Pakistan in that year and a T20I match against England in 2020.
Despite the hiatus from international cricket, Faf du Plessis showcased his cricketing prowess with an outstanding domestic performance this year. His standout achievement came in the IPL 2023, where he emerged as the second-highest run-scorer, amassing an impressive 730 runs for the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
The veteran cricketer, who has previously captained South Africa in the ICC World Cups in 2014 and 2016, finds himself back in the conversation for national team selection. Over the past two seasons, du Plessis had not been considered for international duties. However, his stellar performances in domestic competitions and high-profile T20 tournaments have reignited the possibility of his return to the Proteas’ setup.
Faf du Plessis himself expressed confidence in his comeback, stating, “I believe that I can return to international cricket.” The white-ball coach, Rob Walter, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the potential inclusion of experienced players like du Plessis, Rilee Rossouw, and Quinton de Kock for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Walter further emphasized the importance of finding the right balance for the T20 World Cup squad, indicating a willingness to explore options beyond the regular lineup. The South African domestic tournament, SA20, scheduled for the next year, also presents an opportunity for players like du Plessis to make their case for inclusion in the national team.
As discussions unfold and preparations intensify for the T20 World Cup, Faf du Plessis’ potential return adds an intriguing dimension to South Africa’s campaign. The cricketing world awaits official announcements and anticipates the seasoned campaigner’s comeback on the international stage.
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All venues of T20 World Cup 2024