South African cricket legend AB de Villiers is gearing up for a momentous return to the sport, nearly four years after retiring from all formats of the game. The 40-year-old, who called time on his illustrious international career in 2021, will take on the role of captain for the Game Changers South Africa Champions in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL). This eagerly anticipated tournament is set to kick off on July 18, 2025, and promises to be a nostalgic event for cricket enthusiasts, especially with de Villiers back in action.
AB de Villiers' return is a major talking point, given his extraordinary legacy in the game. Known for his breathtaking batting skills and unmatched versatility, de Villiers was one of the most dynamic and beloved cricketers of his generation. His ability to turn games around with his explosive batting across all formats is etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide. His career spanned nearly two decades, and his record-breaking performances with South Africa, along with his stints in various T20 leagues, made him a household name.
The World Championship of Legends (WCL) serves as a tribute to the cricketing greats of the past, and de Villiers' return will undoubtedly add to the tournament's allure. In the inaugural edition of the WCL, the Game Changers squad boasted several former Proteas stalwarts, including the legendary Jacques Kallis, Herschelle Gibbs, Dale Steyn, and Imran Tahir. The inclusion of de Villiers as captain for the second season has generated a great deal of excitement, as fans are eager to witness his leadership and all-around cricketing prowess once again. His presence on the field will not only inspire his teammates but also provide a major boost to the Game Changers squad's prospects.
Amandeep Singh, the co-owner of South Africa Champions, expressed his enthusiasm about de Villiers’ return to the game, emphasizing the significance of his leadership. "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," said Singh. De Villiers' leadership qualities, honed during his time as captain of the South African national team, will be instrumental in guiding the Game Changers throughout the tournament.
Throughout his career, de Villiers was known for his ability to play shots from all areas of the field, often defying conventional batting techniques. He amassed an impressive 8,765 runs in 114 Tests, 9,577 runs in 228 ODIs, and 1,672 runs in 78 T20Is, making him one of cricket's all-time greats. His performances for South Africa made him a national hero, but it was his stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL) that won him legions of fans across the globe, particularly in India. Playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), de Villiers became a legend of the IPL, known for his explosive batting and his ability to entertain crowds with innovative strokes. His camaraderie with fellow RCB player Virat Kohli and his consistent performances with the bat endeared him to millions of fans, solidifying his place as one of the most celebrated foreign players in the history of the IPL.
The WCL offers fans an exclusive opportunity to witness their favorite retired cricket stars in action once again. With de Villiers at the helm, the Game Changers South Africa Champions are set to be one of the most popular and closely followed teams in the tournament. His leadership, combined with the talent of the other legendary players in the squad, promises to deliver some thrilling cricket and create lasting memories for fans.
As de Villiers prepares to take the field again, his return to the game is not just a chance for fans to relive his glorious career but also a reminder of the enduring impact of his contributions to the sport. His participation in the WCL is a celebration of his remarkable legacy and a testament to his lasting influence on the game of cricket. Fans can look forward to seeing the iconic South African back in action, captaining a team full of other cricketing legends, as they compete for glory in the World Championship of Legends.
