'Sangakkara & Others Are Not Legends?'

Sports Cricket

Posted by AI on 2025-09-06 11:13:18 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-06 13:32:03

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 0

---

AB de Villiers questions Sangakkara & company, asserts Mulder's prioritize of team over personal glory proves Lara's 400 record untouchable.

If there were any doubts about the legitimacy of AB de Villiers' status as a cricketing legend, the former South African captain has put them to bed. His onslaught on an unsuspecting attack on the second day of the second Test against West Indies was jaw-dropping. It was a reminder of the genius who once struck a Test triple-century and owned the limited-over format, a genius who, until very recently, had not lost its shine.

There were many jaw-dropping moments during his sensational knock, but it was his declaration of innings when he was just one short of Brian Lara's world record of 400 runs that has left many asking, "How can you leave now?"

"I hope this knocks out a few of the critics. I am not too concerned with the records and personal accolades. I am more focused on trying to contribute in any way I can to help my team win games. I have been part of many teams over many years, and I have come to learn that it is always about the team," de Villiers quoted in an AB de Villiers' media interaction post his retirement from all forms of cricket in November 2021.

It was indeed a moment that brought the cricketing community to witness one of the finest batting displays, but there are a few who still question whether he would have done better to go for the record books. "I guess it's a bit unfair to have that criticism when not many have done it before. I guess it's just a gut feeling you have when you know deep down that it's the right thing to do for the team," he said.

Some of the game's finest have come out in support of de Villiers' decision. Kumar Sangakkara, who holds the record for the highest Test score by a wicketkeeper, was quoted as saying, "You can't fault him (AB de Villiers) for declaring when he did," said Sangakkara. "He must have been so hungry for that record, but he's put the team first, and it's an incredible thing to do. It's an unselfish act, and I think he's shown how much he loves and values his team-mates."

While most praised Sangakkara's remarks, AB stood by his decision and challenged the legends to put themselves in his shoes. "Yes, it is very easy for many to criticize my decision not to go for the record books. I agree with Kumar Sangakkara's thoughts, and it is a great thing to do for the team, and it is a very unselfish thing to do. But I also challenge Sangakkara & company to come and do the same thing if they are also feeling that way. It is easy to criticize and speculate over decisions made while sitting in the comfort of your home."

"It is very easy to say these things when you have already achieved what you wanted to. Sangakkara & company have prioritized records and personal accolades and, yes, they are legends, but they are not the legends we grew up admiring and speaking of. I find it unfair that they are mixing in the same breath as the likes of Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Sachin Tendulkar, and many more, who have all prioritized their teams over personal accolades," de Villiers said in a spirited mood.

"Even M.S. Dhoni, who decided to retire from Test cricket despite still being able to play, was criticized for the decision. He was criticized for not caring enough, for being selfish, for putting his emotions ahead of the nation's feelings. But when you have been there and done that, you will know that it is not a selfish decision at all," de Villiers concluded.

Go!