Cape Town - Former Proteas veteran wicketkeeper Mark Boucher has backed AB de Villiers to don the gloves in his absence for "as long as he wanted to" and "depending on how it hampers his batting".

Boucher, who was forced into retirement ahead of the recently concluded three-Test series between England and South Africa when a bail struck him in the eye in a warm-up match, was asked on Twitter by respected cricket journalist Neil Manthorp "whether you think AB should carry on" as first-choice wicketkeeper for the Proteas at Test level.

Boucher replied: He's done really well!Tough conditions 2day for keeping!If he wanted 2 ,yes!His call depending on how it hampers his batting.

De Villiers was handed the wicketkeeper role for the series following Boucher's retirement, even though Highveld Lions 'keeper Thami Tsolekile was added to the squad.

Boucher, who retired on 147 Test caps and 999 international dismissals, was quick to congratulate the Proteas on their 51-run victory in the third Test at Lord's which not only secured the series 2-0 for Graeme Smith's team, but also the No 1 ICC Test ranking position.

YES!!!!!!!!!!!, Boucher tweeted, followed by: WELL DONE BOYS!!!!!CORK OUT!!!

Smith and team-mate Jacques Kallis carried messages of support for Boucher on their shirts at the prize giving ceremony and dedicated their series win to their former colleague.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Will Mark Boucher's record as a Test wicketkeeper ever be equalled? Should AB de Villiers take on the 'keeper role on a permanent basis? Send your thoughts to Sport24.


Graeme Smith expresses the feelings of the entire Proteas team (File)