De Villiers keen to mentor Titans young guns

SA Domestic

Former Proteas star AB De Villiers hopes to continue playing a role for the Titans in South African domestic cricket.

The 34-year-old is relishing taking on a mentoring role for the likes of Aiden Markram and Lungi Ngidi.

De Villiers said on the Roger Goode show on 5FM on Thursday morning: “(In) The T20 tournament, I really enjoyed seeing some of the youngsters playing some great cricket – Lungi Ngidi, Aiden Markram, Junior Dala.

“You’re seeing all these names come through, and I just sat back in that tournament and I thought for a while, ‘This is incredible. I’m 34 years old now, and I’ve got this incredible privilege to see some of these youngsters come through, and to actually have an opportunity to have an impact on their careers’.

“So, I had to mention that in my statement that I might still be available to play some games for the Titans. But other than that, I have absolutely no plans for the rest of the year. Just want to spend some time with my family.

“One of the first December holidays at home – I’m looking forward to that in a few months’ time. It’s just incredible, and I am a very, very blessed man.”

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De Villiers would not rule out further involvement in cricket overseas but was eager to put his feet up for a spell.

The former skipper added: “I’ve dealt with a good amount of pressure over the years! So for the next few months, I just want to chill.

“I’m pretty sure something will come up. Look, I’m not completely retired out of all cricket. Like I said, I’m still going to play for the Titans.

“Thank you for the support throughout the years. To everyone in South Africa, it would definitely not have been possible without everyone out there. Thank you.”

The star Protea did not expect to receive a positive response to his retirement.

De Villiers said: “It was quite a tough day yesterday, and I’m just glad that I could get through it. But ja, what can I say… I will forever be grateful to the people of South Africa for their incredible support.

“I wasn’t expecting a positive response, to be honest. It was a really tough decision – I’ve been struggling with it for a while, and I’m just glad we got through it.

“Now it’s a bit of family time, and a bit of time at home – I can’t wait, hey.”

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