The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally broken their Indian Premier League (IPL) jinx, winning the 2025 title after a thrilling final against the Punjab Kings (PBKS). The victory has sent waves of jubilation through the RCB fanbase, and it appears to have had another significant consequence: the return of AB de Villiers to competitive cricket.
De Villiers, who retired from all forms of cricket in 2021, will be making his comeback in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025. The WCL is a T20 tournament featuring retired and non-contracted players representing their national teams. De Villiers is set to captain the South Africa Champions team.
The former South Africa captain, known for his explosive batting and innovative stroke play, had previously expressed a desire to spend more time with his family, leading to his retirement. However, it seems the pull of the game, combined with encouragement from his children, has reignited his passion for cricket. "Four years ago, I retired from all cricket because I just didn't feel the urge to play anymore,” de Villiers stated. “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."
De Villiers' last competitive appearance was in the 2021 IPL season for RCB. In 2025, prior to RCB's triumph, De Villiers had hinted at a possible return to cricket, albeit in a more casual setting, far removed from the pressures of the IPL or SA20. At the time, he also mentioned challenges with his eyesight. "I am talking on a more serious note, actually, of playing some real cricket – not professional IPL or SA20 stuff – but who knows? I have had my fair share (of high-pressure cricket), that's done," he said.
The timing of de Villiers' return coincides with RCB's long-awaited IPL victory, adding another layer of excitement for fans. De Villiers has always maintained a strong connection with RCB and its supporters, and it's fitting that his comeback announcement comes shortly after the franchise's historic win.
RCB's victory in the IPL 2025 final was a momentous occasion, with Virat Kohli, who has been with the team since the inaugural season, visibly emotional after the win. Kohli dedicated the win to past teammates like AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle. There was even a grand celebration in Bengaluru after the victory, with Kohli inviting de Villiers and Gayle. Kohli said, "I hope these two are coming to Bengaluru tomorrow with us. It's going to be something special."
The World Championship of Legends presents a different challenge and a different kind of pressure compared to the IPL. It's an opportunity for de Villiers to enjoy the game, represent his country, and share his experience with a new generation of cricketers and fans. The league's founder, Harshit Tomar, expressed his excitement about de Villiers' participation, stating, "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.”
While de Villiers won't be returning to the IPL, his decision to participate in the World Championship of Legends is a welcome surprise for cricket fans worldwide. It offers a chance to witness the magic of "Mr. 360" once again, as he embarks on a new chapter in his illustrious career.
