Former South African superstar AB de Villiers has hinted at making a comeback to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a non-playing role. While he ruled out a full-time professional commitment, de Villiers expressed interest in returning as a coach or mentor with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the franchise where he spent most of his IPL career.
Strong Bond With RCB
De Villiers began his IPL journey with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in 2008, playing three seasons before joining RCB in 2011. He went on to become one of the team’s biggest icons. The batting legend retired from all forms of cricket in 2021 but admitted his heart still lies with the Bengaluru franchise.
“I might be involved with the IPL again in the future in a different role, but committing to a full season in a professional capacity is tricky. That said, my heart is with RCB and always will be. If the franchise feels there’s a role for me, it will definitely be RCB,” he told IANS.
A Legendary Career at RCB
During his time with RCB, de Villiers played 157 matches, scoring 4,522 runs at an average of 41.10 and a strike rate of 158.33. He registered two centuries and 37 half-centuries, entertaining fans with his unmatched 360-degree stroke play.
He also holds the record for the highest partnership in IPL history, putting together a massive 229-run stand with Virat Kohli against Gujarat Lions in 2016. That season, he piled up 687 runs, finishing third on the overall runs chart.
Overall IPL Legacy
Across his IPL career, which spanned 184 matches for Delhi and RCB, de Villiers amassed 5,162 runs at a strike rate of 151.68, including three centuries and 40 fifties.
In 2022, his legacy with RCB was formally recognised when he was inducted into the RCB Hall of Fame, alongside fellow legend Chris Gayle.
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