'Not A Fan..' - AB de Villiers Rejects BCCI's IPL Rule For SA20

Abhinav Tyagi∙ Updated: Jan 7 2025, 9:40 PM

Ab de Villiers- (Source:@Johns/X.com)Ab de Villiers- (Source:@Johns/X.com)

On January 9, the third edition of SA20 will kickstart in South Africa. Ahead of the start of the much-awaited competition, AB de Villiers, who will be seen commentating in the league, has voiced his opinion on the lack of Indian players in SA20 and the impact player rule in IPL.

Notably, De Villiers, who made a mark with RCB in IPL, disapproved of the new rule by the BCCI and called for more Indian players in the league. 

"I've never been a big fan, to be honest, and I did speak about it at the IPL last season. I feel it's a bit confusing, it also puts a bit of pressure on the all-rounders and their role in the teams," remarked De Villiers.


"From the outside, it looks exciting, but actually when the game takes place, I've never found it to be... a good thing to have in cricket. So, I mean, you can try it out. And the SA20, they've always been open to new ideas and new rules, which I find good," he said. 

It is worth noting that the BCCI has extended the impact player rule in IPL till 2027.

De Villiers Speak On Indian Players Taking Part In SA20

At present, the BCCI does not allow any active Indian cricketer to take part in foreign leagues. Meanwhile, Dinesh Karthik, who has retired from all forms of cricket, will be taking taking part in SA20 2025 featuring for Paarl Royals. 

De Villiers believes that the BCCI would in future allow players to take part in SA20 that would boost the tournament. He said:

"I would love to see more Indian players involved. We know Dinesh Karthik will be here this year which is fantastic and it's great for the tournament. And hopefully the BCCI will allow us to get more Indian players in the future to come and join the fun of the SA20."