After India’s 1-3 series loss against Australia, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers reacted to rumors about a rift within the dressing room. The Sydney Test, which sealed the fate of the series on Sunday, ended in a loss for India by 6 wickets and thus ended the hopes of making it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final. However, prior to that match at the iconic cricket venue, there was one phrase that went viral-Mr. Fix It. According to an article run by the Indian Express, one player from the team suggested this name for ‘interim captaincy’.
These things usually aren’t new in sport, more so when one is touring, De Villiers suggested. “I know there have been some rumors. No, I’m not shocked. There’s fire where there’s smoke. I’ve been part of dressing rooms where it’s been hostile. In particular when you’re away from home and you’re really missing your family, and you’re not playing the best cricket of your career,” said De Villiers in a video posted on X.
However, De Villiers said, he would not be surprised if the rumors turned out to be true, especially keeping in view the results that did not favor the team.
“The dressing room is critical, especially when you’re away from home. It’s much easier at home. I have no doubt that the Indian team dressing room might have lost that a little bit over the last weeks in Australia. When faith in each other starts to dwindle, you might as well just sit on the sides and hand over the trophy. I don’t have facts with regards to the Indian dressing room. I’ll wait for facts to see who’s been rubbing each other the wrong way,” he added.
You are all loyal with each other, there is a great atmosphere and spirit and respect always for the guy next to you. This gives you, even if you’re losing, a good dressing room, the player explained.” De Villiers said.
