‘I don’t think so’ – Aakash Chopra on South Africa’s chances of winning the T20 World Cup in absence of AB de Villiers

‘I don’t think so’ – Aakash Chopra on South Africa’s chances of winning the T20 World Cup in absence of AB de Villiers

Aakash Chopra and AB de Villiers

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra mentioned that the absence of AB de Villiers diminishes South Africa’s chances of winning the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup.

In a recent statement, the Proteas cricketer cleared that he won’t be coming out of international retirement to play at the upcoming mega event. De Villiers’ yet another majestic performance for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2021 had earlier raised hopes in SA’s fans on his possible return to the national setup

The cricketer-turned-commentator posted a video on his Youtube channel where he ruled out South Africa’s chances of clinching the T20 WC title. However, he mentioned that they can do well only to spoil other teams’ parties.

“The chances of their progress would have been better if AB de Villiers was there but if he is not there, it is impossible to get a player of his quality. The team still has good players but is it a team that can win the World Cup, I personally don’t think so,” said Chopra.

“This team can do well, trouble a few people and spoil other teams’ parties but they might not be able to win the World Cup because wherever it happens, whether in India or the UAE, I have my reservations with regards to their chances to win the tournament in these conditions,” added Chopra.

‘South Africa did not win WC even when AB de Villiers was there’

YouTube video

The 43-year old pointed out that South Africa has failed to lift a World Cup trophy when AB de Villiers was there as well. He further highlighted that the current SA team is also not that good and their performance looks uncertain at the much-anticipated T20 World Cup which is tentative to take place in the UAE.

“The first thing is whether they can win the World Cup is a big question. They did not win when AB de Villiers was there as well. They play well but something happens when they come for an ICC trophy,” said Chopra.

“At this point in time, the team is not that good. Let’s be fair, don’t count them out. They are a good team, they fight but they are also a team that struggles at the end and chokes at times. They don’t really know how to close the big moments. That problem has been there with this team,” observed Chopra.

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