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AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket

AB de Villiers is the only player that averages more than 50 in both Tests and ODIs.

He announced his retirement on this day, 3 years ago!
 
AB de Villiers, during an interview with a freelance journalist, said:

“I might still play cricket one day. No confirmation whatsoever, but I’m starting to feel it. My kids are putting me under a bit of pressure, and I feel like I could go to the nets with them."

"If I enjoy it, maybe I’ll walk out and go and play a little bit of casual cricket somewhere again and not professional IPL stuff or SA tours.”

“I’ll maybe ask him [Imran Tahir] to be in my team wherever I go. Just remember this: he’s one of my favourite players. Nothing serious, though."

"We’re not talking about RCB and big stuff. Yes, I don’t want to feel that pressure again. That’s the thing. So, wherever I go, I’ll have a bit of fun."
 
AB de Villiers Returns to Cricket After Four Years to Lead Game Changers South Africa Champions in World Championship of Legends

28 January 2025 – Cricketing fans worldwide are set to celebrate as South African icon AB de Villiers announces his long-awaited return to the sport after nearly four years.

De Villiers, revered as one of the most innovative and electrifying cricketers of all time, will lead the Game Changers South Africa Champions in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL). This premier T20 tournament, featuring retired and non-contracted cricket legends, promises a nostalgic yet exhilarating spectacle for fans across the globe.

Reflecting on his return, de Villiers said:

*"Four years ago, I retired from all cricket because I just didn’t feel the urge to play any more. Well, time has passed, and my young sons have started playing the game. We’ve been playing more and more often in the garden, and, well, it feels as though some kind of flame has been lit again.

“So I am heading back to the gym and the nets, and I’ll be ready for WCL in July.”

Known for his unmatched versatility and fearless batting, de Villiers’ comeback has ignited excitement within the cricketing fraternity. The Game Changers squad, which featured legends such as Jacques Kallis, Herschelle Gibbs, Dale Steyn, and Imran Tahir in the inaugural season, now has an even brighter future under de Villiers’ captaincy.

Amandeep Singh , Co Owner of South Africa Champions & Founder of Game Changers shared his excitement:

"We are honoured to compete in the World Championship of Legends and showcase the incredible talent of our cricketing greats. AB de Villiers’ return as our captain is a monumental boost for our team, and his leadership will undoubtedly inspire us to new heights.”

Harry Singh , Co Owner of South Africa Champions added:

"AB de Villiers is not just a player; he’s an icon who has inspired millions around the world. His decision to lead our team is a testament to his love for the game, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have him on board. This marks a historic moment for the team and the league.”

Harshit Tomar, Founder and CEO of the World Championship of Legends, expressed his enthusiasm:

"This is precisely why we launched the WCL – to bring back the legends we deeply miss. As a fan of AB de Villiers, I’m thrilled to see him return to the field. I’m sure cricket lovers in England and beyond will be delighted by his comeback.”

Nishant Pitti, Chief Patron of the WCL and Co-founder & Chairman of EaseMyTrip, added:

"Our partnership with the World Championship of Legends is a celebration of cricket’s golden era. The return of AB de Villiers embodies the spirit of the league, and we are privileged to witness this iconic moment.”

With AB de Villiers at the helm, the Game Changers South Africa Champions are poised for an unforgettable campaign in the WCL. Cricket fans can look forward to reliving the magic of yesteryear as the league bridges generations and celebrates the enduring passion for the game.
 
During a live session on his YouTube channel, AB De Villiers was asked about his comeback to the IPL:

“I get goosebumps when I think of it, I promise you. It would have been so nice, but I am done and dusted. I am 41 years old, one eye is troubling me a bit. I am going to play a bit of casual cricket. Competitive, but casual.”

“There will be too much pressure when I go into the IPL for RCB again. I will expect too much of myself. Having not played for many years, the level is really, really high there. I don’t know, never say never I guess, but I don’t think so guys,”
 
One of the greatest cricketers to have ever played the game. :inti
 
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