• Sportzyverse
• T20 World Cup 2024
• 05/29/2024
• 0 Comments

Since the unveiling of South Africa’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, a significant and engaging topic has been the diversity of the team. This has sparked a flurry of discussions and debates among cricket enthusiasts and those interested in the dynamics of inclusion in sports.

Former South African captain AB de Villiers, a respected figure in the cricketing world, has openly expressed his disappointment over the ongoing diversity discussions. He firmly believes that such debates should not overshadow the team’s preparations for a crucial tournament like the World Cup, a sentiment that many fans can empathize with.

In an interaction with Jio Cinema, de Villers was heard saying, “It’s a shame going into a tournament to have the focus on that. I mean it’s not new, it’s just a shame. Luckily this time around, I’ve had nothing to do with anything over there. I’m just a spectator.”

The controversy came into foray after South Africa announced their squad, which only had Kagiso Rabada as a player from the black African community. According to a policy introduced in 2016, the team is supposed to have 6 players of colour at all times. This also includes having 2 players from the black African community who are required to be in the playing eleven.

For now, only Rabada is part of the main squad. They have another player, Lungi Ngidi, who will be part of the touring part but has been named in the reserves. Hence, his chances of making it to the squad, with Nortje and Burger in the team, look very thin.

Also read AB de Villiers on Potential Coaching Role as BCCI Searches for New India Head Coach

Despite the controversy, de Villiers remains optimistic about South Africa’s chances. He acknowledges the unfortunate absence of Ngidi, a long-standing member of the squad, but believes in the team’s strength and ability to deliver a commendable performance in the upcoming tournament.

South Africa is often considered one of the teams to beat, no matter which tournament they enter. However, they often find themselves choking in the final quarters of a tournament.

The tournament begins on June 1st in the Americas, and South Africa will be looking to clinch its first T20 World Cup title.