New Delhi: AB de Villiers has given cricket fans another reason to dream of seeing him back in the Indian Premier League after smashing a breathtaking 37-ball century against Australia in the World Championship of Legends. The performance has prompted supporters to urge the 42-year-old to register for the IPL auction scheduled for December.
De Villiers delivered an explosive knock that showcased the extraordinary ball-striking ability which previously made him one of the most feared batters in the tournament. His recent display has reignited conversations about whether the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru star could make a sensational return to the competitive stage.
Across two matches in the tournament, de Villiers has accumulated 181 runs at an average of 181 and an exceptional strike rate of 229.11. These figures have reinforced the sentiment among followers that his capacity to clear boundaries and shift the momentum of a match instantly remains entirely intact.
Playing against the Australia Champions, de Villiers finished unbeaten on 111 from merely 40 deliveries, striking six fours and 11 sixes to guide the South Africa Champions in successfully chasing a target of 210 in just 15.4 overs. The display evoked memories of the audacious strokeplay that cemented his status as a fan favorite during his storied IPL career.
Supporters quickly took to social media platforms to voice their desire for a comeback, with numerous individuals calling for him to put his name forward for the player auction. Commentators online suggested that his current caliber would allow him to excel against modern bowling attacks.
De Villiers previously retired from the IPL and all forms of competitive cricket in November 2021, concluding a celebrated career that included 5,162 runs across 184 matches, with the vast majority coming for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Having reached age 42, he will celebrate another birthday prior to the commencement of the next IPL season.
Although it remains unconfirmed whether the legendary batter will officially enter his name into the auction pool, his dominant performances in the World Championship of Legends have successfully revived hopes among supporters eager to witness his return to franchise cricket.