I have made peace with the fact that the World Cup will not define me: Ab De Villiers

What’s the story?

South African cricket legend AB De Villiers has said that not winning the World Cup won't define him as a cricketer.

In case you didn't know...

Middlesex recently announced that the T20 superstar would join them this season. AB is excited to play for them, and here is what he said to Standard Sport:

"It’s exciting that the opportunity to play county cricket has finally come along. And, I couldn’t hope for a better club to join. The international schedule was always just too hectic for it to happen sooner. Playing your cricket at Lord’s is a special bonus. I never made it onto that honours board, but I have great memories of playing there.”

The heart of the matter

AB De Villiers retired from international cricket last year. He played over 400 matches for South Africa. But not winning the World Cup was a dream not only for him but also for all the South African cricketers. They came close in 2015 but lost to New Zealand in the semi-finals. With AB having retired, he will not have a World Cup medal if the Proteas win this time. He further added the following.

I’ve made peace with the fact that the World Cup will not define me. Yes, it would be nice to add that to what’s been a very enjoyable career, but I know it won’t define me as a person or cricketer." You can never keep everyone happy. I’ve always been a people pleaser. I’m very passionate about my country, but I’m at a stage of my life where I’ve moved on. There are people who think I should still be playing, but the international scene just became a little bit too much for me with my family and a few other things.

The truth of the matter is that until a South African side wins a World Cup, questions will always be asked about their inability to get over the line. It might happen in 2019, or it might happen later, but ABD will not be a part of that squad. Irrespective of that, there is no taking away from the fact that AB should be regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

What’s next?

South African veteran is playing T20 leagues all around the world. He will be seen in action in the upcoming IPL season along with Virat Kohli for RCB.