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Former Protean international and legendary cricketer AB de Villiers is all set to return to the cricket field after announcing retirement from the game in 2021 after the Indian Premier League (IPL). Although, at that time, he cited discomfort in his vision to be the main reason behind this move, but last week on January 22, he confirmed that there is still some cricket left in him and might return.
Just days after this bold announcement, the South African international recently revealed his return date. Reflecting on his return, the 40-year-old said that he will feature in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends, set to be played in July 2025.
AB de Villiers to lead South Africa in World Championship of Legends in July 2025
Known for his innovative batting style and versatility, the 40-year-old is set to captain the Game Changers South Africa Champions in the second edition of WCL, a tournament which celebrates the legacy of the cricketing greats. He will be joined by the likes of Jacques Kallis, Herschelle Gibbs, Dale Steyn and Imran Tahir in the side.
"Four years ago, I retired from all cricket because I just didn't feel the urge to play anymore. 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," the South African legend said.
Co-owner of the South Africa Champions, Amandeep Singh earlier confirmed AB de Villiers leading the side as he said, “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 monumental boost for our team, and his leadership will undoubtedly inspire is to new heights.”
Speaking of AB de Villiers, the legend boosts of great numbers, amassing 8765 runs in 114 Tests, 9,577 runs in 228 ODIs and 1,672 runs in 78 T20Is. He broke the world record for the fastest ODI hundred in 2015, getting to the milestone off 31 deliveries, that also included the fastest ODI fifty as well as 16 sixes.
