He believes that Yadav has the potential to shine in ODIs with a subtle shift in his mindset.
"It is a tiny little mind switch that he's got to make, and he's got all the ability and capabilities that he needs to do that," de Villiers suggested.
He expressed his delight at Yadav's inclusion in India's World Cup squad, emphasizing that the batter might not start initially due to the squad's balance but could play a crucial role in the tournament's later stages.
"I am very relieved to see SKY in the World Cup squad; I'm very happy about it. I hope he gets this opportunity in this World Cup," he said.
"Looking at the balance of the Indian squad, he might not start, but a World Cup is a long tournament. So let's see what happens then," he added.
De Villiers also shared his thoughts on the exclusion of Sanju Samson from the World Cup squad, acknowledging Samson's incredible talent.
He recounted an instance where he witnessed Samson's explosive batting for the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, highlighting Samson's ability to play both conventional and unorthodox shots.
“I don't have to say much about him. We know what he's capable of,” said AB.
“I've been on the receiving end for RCB, watching him score 92 not out at the Chinnaswamy. The ball was flying all over the place. He's also got the conventional cricket game and technique where he plays with a straight bat, plays the ball nicely. He's got a good pull and hook shot,” he added
De Villiers believes that Samson has all the attributes to succeed in ODIs but needs to adapt to the format's unique challenges and game plans.
"He's got everything in his bag. It's all in the mind and it's a matter of adapting to ODI and gameplans and the World Cup and the pressure thereof. So yes, two great players," he concluded.
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