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'Might Still Play...,' AB de Villiers' Hints At Comeback; Will He Make RCB Return In IPL?

Bhargav Dixit

AB de Villiers last played in 2021 [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X]AB de Villiers last played in 2021 [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X]

More than three years after last playing a representative match, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has hinted at returning to cricket. Inspired by former teammate Imran Tahir’s inspiring journey, de Villiers opened up to the possibility of playing “casually” on the Running Between The Wickets podcast with journalist Melinda Farrell.

De Villiers, who retired comparatively younger from both international cricket and franchise circuit to prioritise family time, cited how his children are a reason why he thinks of holding a bat professionally again.

“I might still play cricket one day. No confirmation whatsoever. My kids are putting me under a bit of pressure, and I feel like I could go to the nets with them,” de Villiers told Farell in a recent interaction.

With de Villiers’ three kids grown up now, perhaps he wishes to show them his prowess for one last time. Still 40, de Villiers appears fit enough to entertain his plethora of fans yet again. While there is no age-related restriction for cricketers, franchise leagues have a lot of scope for fit players even into their 40s.

AB de Villiers Will Play Cricket On This Condition

De Villiers, however, sounded practical during the discussion. Respecting his age, he pointed out some issue with his eyesight. With his left eye not at its absolute best, he was considerate enough to give the sport a shot before making an official announcement.

“This right one is the dominant one, it is working fine. I am doing it for my kids and see if I can go out there and enjoy cricket again. Even if it is very casual and see where we draw the line,” ABD added.

AB de Villiers Won’t Play For RCB

With his last competitive outing coming for them during Indian Premier League 2021, the right-handed batter categorically denied representing Royal Challengers Bangalore in the future. Not that he aimed to end one of IPL’s most cherished ties but doesn’t want to put himself in a pressure situation as big as the biggest T20 league in the world.

“We’re not talking RCB. I don’t want to feel that pressure again. That’s the thing. So, wherever I go, I’ll go have a bit of fun, I want to do it with my kids and I want to feel like I’m happy to be here,” Mr. 360 mentioned.

Even if de Villiers doesn’t return to top-notch competitions such as the IPL or SA20 or the Big Bash League, there are enough leagues who would want him to ply his trade for them. Assuming de Villiers sticks to his “casual” comeback, he will doubtlessly receive a warm welcome in several legends tournaments reserved for retired players.