AB De Villiers Returns To Competitive Cricket In Grand Style; Smashes A 28-ball Century With 15 Sixes

Cricket fans around the world were left in awe as AB de Villiers, one of the most destructive batters in the history of the game, made a breathtaking return to competitive cricket. Playing for Titan Legends against Bulls Legends in the Taste of SuperSport Park tournament at Centurion on March 9, De Villiers announced his comeback in style—blazing his way to a jaw-dropping century off just 28 balls.

After nearly three years away from professional cricket, De Villiers lit up the stage with his signature stroke play, smashing an astonishing 15 sixes in his knock. The innings was a reminder of his unmatched skill, audacious shot-making, and sheer dominance—a spectacle that sent social media into a frenzy and left fans reminiscing about his prime years.

AB de Villiers’ Explosive Knock: Powering Titan Legends to a Mammoth Total

Batting first, Titan Legends set a colossal total of 278/7 in their 20 overs, with AB de Villiers leading the charge. Right from the moment he took guard, it was evident that the old magic was still alive. With his 360-degree stroke play, he dismantled the opposition bowling attack, finding gaps, clearing boundaries, and executing his trademark unorthodox shots with perfection.

His century came in just 28 balls, and the moment was nothing short of cinematic. He reached the three-figure mark in grand style, pulling a delivery into the stands, bringing the crowd to their feet. Every stroke he played rekindled memories of his days at the peak of world cricket, when he dominated bowling attacks with sheer power, finesse, and innovation.

This record-breaking knock was not just about brute force; it was a masterclass in controlled aggression. De Villiers displayed his quick hands, immaculate timing, and incredible ability to pick gaps effortlessly, making it nearly impossible for bowlers to contain him.

The fans at SuperSport Park were treated to a sensational display of batting artistry, witnessing a man who had seemingly never lost touch with the game despite years away from competitive cricket.

A Dominant Victory for Titan Legends

With such a mammoth total on the board, Bulls Legends faced a daunting challenge in the chase. However, the pressure of a huge target coupled with some disciplined bowling from Titan Legends saw them struggle.

By the time rain interrupted play after 14 overs, Bulls Legends were 125/8, nowhere close to threatening the total set by De Villiers and his team. The match was called off due to the weather, sealing a dominant win for Titan Legends.

While the rain may have cut short the contest, nothing could overshadow the magnificence of AB de Villiers’ innings. His return had stolen the show, and cricket lovers across the world were left in disbelief and admiration.

First Competitive Match Since 2021: A Legendary Comeback

This match marked AB de Villiers’ first competitive game since 2021, when he last played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). His decision to step away from all formats of the game had left a void in world cricket, with many fans hoping he would reconsider retirement.

Despite retiring from international cricket in 2018, De Villiers remains one of South Africa’s greatest cricketers and the country’s second-highest run-scorer across formats, having amassed 19,864 runs at an average of 48.33.

His return to competitive cricket is a dream come true for cricket lovers, as the sport desperately missed his brilliance. Even after years away, De Villiers showcased that his hand-eye coordination, shot selection, and match awareness remain as sharp as ever.

AB de Villiers and His Unmatched Records

Few players in cricket history have had the kind of impact and influence that AB de Villiers has enjoyed. His records across formats stand as a testament to his greatness.

Fastest ODI Century

Perhaps the most iconic moment of De Villiers’ career came in 2015, when he smashed the fastest-ever ODI century off just 31 balls against the West Indies. That record still stands unbeaten, solidifying his reputation as one of the most explosive batters in the history of the game.

Unparalleled Versatility Across Formats

Tests: 8,765 runs at an average of 50.66
ODIs: 9,577 runs at an average of 53.50
T20Is: 1,672 runs at a strike rate of 135.16

Whether in Test cricket, ODIs, or T20s, De Villiers was a force to be reckoned with. His ability to play the anchor role as well as the aggressor made him a rare breed—one who could adapt to any situation with ease.

Eyes Set on the World Championship of Legends

De Villiers’ return is not limited to one game in the Taste of SuperSport Park tournament. In January 2025, he announced that he would participate in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends, a global tournament featuring retired cricketing superstars.

For fans, this announcement is a golden opportunity to witness more of his genius. The World Championship of Legends will provide a bigger platform for De Villiers to showcase his legendary skills once again, and his explosive knock in Centurion is a strong indication that he is far from done.

With several cricketing legends set to feature in the tournament, all eyes will be on De Villiers to see whether he can replicate his vintage magic on the big stage.

The Impact of AB de Villiers on Modern Cricket

There are few players who redefine how a sport is played, and AB de Villiers is certainly one of them. His ability to play 360-degree shots, combined with his composure under pressure, has inspired an entire generation of cricketers.

Modern superstars such as Glenn Maxwell, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jos Buttler have credited De Villiers as an inspiration for their own innovative stroke play.

Even after retiring, his legacy continues to influence the game, and his return to competitive cricket adds another exciting chapter to his already illustrious career.

Final Thoughts: The Return of the Genius

AB de Villiers’ return to cricket was nothing short of spectacular. His 28-ball century in the Taste of SuperSport Park tournament has reignited memories of his glory days, proving that class is permanent.

His knock was a statement of intent, signaling that he is still one of the most destructive batters in the world, even after years away from the professional circuit.

As he prepares for the World Championship of Legends, cricket fans across the globe eagerly await his next appearance, hoping to witness more breathtaking innings from one of the greatest cricketers of all time.

Whether it’s past, present, or future, one thing remains unchanged—AB de Villiers is, and always will be, a cricketing legend.

Please check for information on the best betting sites in India – https://selectory.org/best-betting-sites/