AB de Villiers Returns to Cricket After Four Years!
Cricket fans around the world have a reason to celebrate! AB de Villiers, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, is making a return to the field. After nearly four years of retirement, the South African legend will be seen playing cricket once again. This news has excited fans who have missed watching his explosive batting and incredible skills.
AB de Villiers, also known as ABD, last played in the 2021 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he represented the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Since then, he has been enjoying his retirement, spending time with family, and focusing on other interests. However, the cricketing world will soon see him back in action as he joins the Game Changers South Africa Champions in the World Championship of Legends (WCL).
The best part? ABD will not just be playing – he will also be leading the team! Fans are excited to see him captain a side again, especially since he is regarded as one of the best players the game has ever seen. It will be a thrilling moment to watch him play in front of packed stadiums once more.
AB de Villiers’ Retirement and His Surprise Return
AB de Villiers officially retired from international cricket in 2018, surprising many people because he was still performing at his peak. Unlike most players who retire when their performance declines, ABD was still in fantastic form. His decision to step away shocked cricket lovers across the world.
In 2021, he also announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, including franchise leagues. Fans had accepted that they might never see him play again. But now, with this sudden comeback, supporters are hopeful and excited to watch their favorite cricketer in action.
Will AB de Villiers Play in the Champions Trophy 2025?
While fans are thrilled about his return, the big question is: Will AB de Villiers play in the Champions Trophy 2025 for South Africa?
Unfortunately, the answer is no.
ABD has only decided to play in the World Championship of Legends, which is a franchise league. This is just a temporary return, and there is no indication that he will come out of international retirement. As of now, he remains retired from playing for South Africa.
Many fans still hope that he might reconsider and join the South African team for the Champions Trophy 2025, but there is no official news about that. Even if a player gets injured and a replacement is needed, ABD won’t be selected unless he formally announces a return to international cricket.
So, while fans would love to see him in the green and gold jersey again, it is unlikely to happen.
What is the World Championship of Legends (WCL)?
Since AB de Villiers is making his comeback in the World Championship of Legends (WCL), let’s take a closer look at this exciting tournament.
The World Championship of Legends is a new T20 cricket league where former cricket legends from different countries will compete. It is similar to other leagues where retired players get a chance to entertain fans once again.
When Will WCL Take Place?
The tournament is set to begin in July 2025. According to reports, the WCL will start on July 18 and continue until August 2.
This event will feature some of the biggest names in cricket history. Many legendary players from different nations will take part, making it a highly anticipated tournament. For cricket fans who love watching veteran stars in action, this will be an incredible experience.
AB de Villiers’ Incredible Career
Since ABD is making a comeback, let’s look back at his fantastic career and why he is considered one of the best cricketers ever.
Early Days and Rise to Stardom
AB de Villiers made his debut for South Africa in 2004. From the very beginning, it was clear that he was a special player. His ability to play unorthodox shots, score runs quickly, and dominate bowlers made him a fan favorite.
Over the years, he became known as “Mr. 360” because of his ability to play shots in every direction of the field. Whether it was a classic cover drive or an innovative scoop shot over the wicketkeeper’s head, ABD had every shot in the book.
Record-Breaking Performances
AB de Villiers holds several records in cricket, including:
- Fastest ODI Century: He scored a 100 in just 31 balls against the West Indies in 2015.
- Fastest 50 in ODIs: He reached 50 in just 16 balls in the same match.
- Fastest 150 in ODIs: He smashed 150 runs in only 64 balls in another brilliant performance.
His ability to change the game in just a few overs made him one of the most feared batsmen in the world. Whether it was Test cricket, ODIs, or T20s, he excelled in every format.
Impact in IPL
AB de Villiers was one of the most loved overseas players in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for many years and formed a deadly partnership with Virat Kohli.
Fans still remember his unforgettable innings where he single-handedly won games for RCB. His match-winning knocks and ability to hit sixes under pressure made him a legend in IPL history.
Retirement and Legacy
In 2018, ABD shocked the world by retiring from international cricket. He said he was tired and wanted to give young players a chance. Even though he retired, his impact on South African cricket remained.
In 2021, he also retired from all cricket formats, including franchise leagues. Since then, he has focused on personal life, commentary, and other cricket-related activities. However, his return in WCL 2025 has given fans a fresh reason to celebrate!
Conclusion
AB de Villiers is finally coming back to cricket after four years, and fans are eagerly waiting to see him in action again. He will be leading Game Changers South Africa Champions in the World Championship of Legends (WCL), which will take place in July 2025.
While many fans hope to see him play for South Africa in the Champions Trophy 2025, he has not announced any plans for an international return. As of now, ABD remains retired from international cricket.
Even though he may not play for South Africa again, cricket lovers will still get to watch his magic on the field one more time. Whether it’s a quickfire 50 or an unbelievable six over third man, AB de Villiers is sure to entertain once again!
So mark your calendars – July 2025, AB de Villiers is back!
