Former fast bowler Allan Donald has insisted batsman David Miller will be key in the absence of the retired AB de Villiers during South Africa’s World Cup campaign later this year.

A superb fielder and middle-order kingpin for the Proteas, like de Villiers was before ending a prolific international career last year, Miller will be vital to the Proteas’ hopes of winning the ODI showpiece in the United Kingdom.

‘If you look at where AB has left us, Miller is absolutely key for South Africa at this World Cup,’ Donald told Sport24.

‘I would but I think the rest of the world hopes that AB doesn’t make a last minute U-turn and avail himself for Cricket World Cup selection. I read that AB said he would sit down with Cricket South Africa, but I can’t see de Villiers returning to the international fold for South Africa.

‘I think he has made his mind up and that is fair enough. Everyone has their own opinions on AB calling time on his Proteas career and some are harsher than others. I still believe that it’s an individual’s absolute right to say, “I have made a call and am moving on.” AB has decided to move on and you have to respect that.’

Donald, meanwhile, is hopeful fast bowler Lungi Ngidi will recover from a knee injury to be named in the squad for the World Cup, which will be played in England and Wales from 30 May to 14 July.

‘If Ngidi overcomes his knee injury in time, he will be a huge boost for our World Cup hopes. I’ve seen Lungi working out with the South African squad and doing his rehabilitation with the physiotherapist,’ added Donald.

‘The injury he sustained last November against Australia was quite severe, but it’s good to hear that he is ahead of schedule in terms of his recovery process.’

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