IPL: AB de Villiers to continue his stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore

South African batsman AB de Villiers retired from all forms of international cricket back in May this year and thereafter the veteran hasn’t played competitive cricket. Apart from an illustrious career for the Proteas, he has also been one of the world’s most sought after cricketers in T20 tournaments around the globe, one of them is the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL).

He made his debut in the event, playing for the Delhi Daredevils in 2008, but was roped in by the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2011 and he has carved himself as an indispensable member of the franchise. However, following his sudden retirement, doubts surrounding his participation in the mega event did the rounds.

Recently, the franchise updated about his participation in the tournament. “De Villiers will be available for RCB. We have stated our intentions on this matter in the past as well,” RCB Chairman Sanjeev Churiwala was quoted as saying in Times Now.

A busy schedule for de Villiers

The Pretoria-born cricketer has played 141 matches in the Indian T20 event and has notched 3953 runs at an average of 39.53. Moreover, he has notched three centuries and 28 half-centuries to thoroughly enthrall the crowd. Lately, the franchise removed Daniel Vettori as the head coach and passed the baton to Gary Kirsten. Former Indian cricketer Ashish Nehra will also take over the coaching role.

The cricketer is likely to be seen, weaving his magic in next year’s Pakistan Super League as he earlier agreed to play in the event. The 34-year-old has also been appointed as the non-playing ambassador of the 2018-19 UAE T20X to be played from December 19 to January 11 in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.

In T20 cricket, de Villiers has notched 6649 runs in 251 matches. He last donned the national colours when South Africa played Australia in the Test series earlier this year.

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