Xtra Time Web Desk: Former South African captain Faf du Plessis is eyeing a comeback to international cricket, targeting the T20 World Cup 2024. Du Plessis, who never officially retired from white-ball cricket, aims to strike a balance between representing Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2024 and preparing for the T20 World Cup, which begins just days after the IPL concludes on June 4 in the USA and West Indies.
The RCB skipper, aware of the demanding schedule, may choose to selectively participate in IPL games to ensure he is fit for the global tournament. Du Plessis had an impressive IPL 2023 season, scoring 730 runs in 14 matches, signalling his form and intent.
Despite missing out on two T20 World Cups (2021, 2022), Du Plessis remains determined to contribute to South Africa’s success in the upcoming edition. His potential return has received support from South Africa’s white-ball formats head coach Rob Walter, who has emphasized the possibility of senior players making a comeback based on their performances in various leagues.
“I believe that I can return to international cricket,” du Plessis told the broadcaster of the Abu Dhabi T10 league.
He added, “We have been speaking about this for the last couple of years. It’s just figuring out the balance of the T20 World Cup next year. It’s certainly something we have spoken about with the new coach.”
The veteran batter’s aspirations align with South Africa’s quest for T20 success, and Proteas white ball Rob Walter has left the door open for players like Du Plessis, Rilee Rossouw, and Quinton de Kock to be considered for the T20 World Cup squad, emphasizing the need for in-form players to secure a spot in the lineup.
According to Walter, “Given that some of our frontline bowlers are missing out and there are guys – let me throw it out there just to create some media hype – like Faf (du Plessis) and Rilee (Rossouw) as well as Quinny (De Kock) that could well be considered for a T20 World Cup and then also the SA20 that happens next year – 80% of the side picks itself but there is definitely a space for other guys to get themselves into the conversation.”