Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers heaped praise on David Warner, commending his fighting spirit and resilience following the Australian batter’s retirement from Test and ODI cricket.
De Villiers fondly recalled his time with Warner at the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). He highlighted Warner's exceptional skills and his remarkable ability to overcome challenges, saying the Aussie opener is a huge fighter.
AB de Villiers said on his YouTube channel: “I had played with David Warner at the Delhi Daredevils. He was a fantastic player right from the word go and he has put up his hand for one of the best all-round cricketers of all time. Went through a lot of controversies as well but always found a way to come back. He is a huge fighter.”
Meanwhile, De Villiers praised Warner for his commitment to making himself available for the 2025 Champions Trophy despite retiring from ODIs. Warner assured Australia that he would be there if they required his services, like De Villiers' own stance on his retirement.
De Villiers took a subtle dig at South Africa, recalling a time when, despite confirming his availability for both the T20 World Cup and the 2019 ODI World Cup, he was not considered for selection by the national selectors and CSA.
The 39-year-old said, “I am incredibly grateful to have played all formats for my country. Then I did exactly what David Warner did. I had a family back home so I didn't want to tour anymore. I wanted to play in the T20 World Cup, which was frowned upon but now everybody is doing it.”
De Villiers signed off by saying, “I wish I played another World Cup for South Africa. I wish I could say just like Warner that if you need me, I am available.”
(With ANI Inputs)
