If de Villiers has appealed more as a senior pro rather than a leader in recent years, that may owe more to the fact Smith was such a dominant figure. Now, at 30, one of the games' most proficient, versatile batsmen gets his chance. His numbers suggest a player who thrives on extra responsibility.
Consider that over those 168 ODIs, de Villiers has averaged 50.22, with 18 centuries. In his 49 games in charge, de Villiers' average has soared to 62.69, with seven hundreds. In 27 games as captain, and wicketkeeper, move that number up to 66.61.
His last game with the gloves was in November, Quinton de Kock now having stepped in.
De Villiers - who also averages 51.02 over 95 tests - is reluctant to use the word "thrive" in relation to those numbers and how leadership has improved them.
"But it certainly motivates me to do really well and do something special for the team," he said.
"I've always been that kind of player where the team comes first. That's the way I lead and more than ever in Zimbabwe [last month], I felt the boys were right behind me, so that's a good sign heading to the World Cup."
Wessels, Cronje, twice, Shaun Pollock and Smith, twice. All outstanding cricketers but linked in one other respect - leaders who were unable to lift the cup, let alone make a final, despite a string of close calls.
De Villiers, whose team have won nine of 11 ODIs this year against Australia, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, spoke with feeling this week about what winning the cup would mean to him, and South Africa's cricket community. "It's really close to my heart. I'll do anything to win the World Cup," he said.
There's no mistaking South Africa's bid will be in the hands of a thoroughly determined cricketer.
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