Veteran Proteas batsman Faf du Plessis has hinted at his possible return to international cricket. He said Cricket South Africa is looking for balance and he could return to the team for the 2024 T20 World Cup.
It’s been a while since we’ve seen Faf du Plessis in Proteas colour. He last played for South Africa in the T20I against England in 2020. He called for an end to his Test career and mentioned that he would play for the team in white-ball format.
However, it seemed that Faf du Plessis’ Test retirement did not go well for the CSA as they overlooked him and did not give him a single chance despite being a great player. Since then he has played freelance in various leagues around the world and what is admirable is that he is scoring runs in all corners of the world.
In recent months there has been a lot of talk about his return to the South Africa national team. Faf du Plessis is in constant talks with the CSA and with the 2024 T20 World Cup just around the corner, his return could be a reality.
Faf du Plessis himself mentioned that he may return to international cricket as he has been in talks with South Africa coach Rob Walter. Speaking during the Abu Dhabi T10 League, he said (as quoted by India Today):
“I think I can return to international cricket as well. We’ve been talking about this for the last few years. It is simply a matter of calculating the balance of the T20 World Cup next year. It’s certainly something we’ve talked about with the new coach. Watch this space.”
I work hard to take care of my body and be able to play – Faf du Plessis
Even at 39, Faf du Plessis is one of the fittest cricketers in the world. The amount of hard work he puts in is unmatched and it’s fair to say he’s in even better shape than some of the youngsters.
Faf du Plessis spoke about the hard work he puts in and said he wants to play as long as possible. He added:
“I work hard to make sure I take care of my body so I can play this brilliant game we love so much. When you get a little older, you should make sure to push yourself. Otherwise, the hamstrings and other parts of the body don’t work as well. “There are a lot of fast races and a lot of things to ensure that level where you can play against the best players in the world.”
Faf du Plessis has played 50 T20Is for South Africa and has scored 1528 runs with a strike rate of over 134. His return to the South African team will be a big boost for the team.
