South African cricket legend AB de Villiers has sparked speculation about a potential return to the sport, four years after his retirement from professional cricket. In a recent interview, de Villiers expressed interest in playing casual cricket, influenced by his children’s encouragement.
Desire for Casual Cricket
De Villiers, who retired from all forms of professional cricket in November 2021 to spend more time with his family, mentioned that his children have been urging him to play again. He stated, “I might still play cricket one day. No confirmation whatsoever, but I’m starting to feel it. My kids are putting me under a bit of pressure, and I feel like I could go to the nets with them.”
No Return to Professional Leagues
While de Villiers is open to playing cricket casually, he has ruled out a return to professional leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) or the South African T20 league (SA20). He emphasized, “I am talking on a more serious note, actually, of playing some real cricket not professional IPL or SA20 stuff but who knows? I have had my fair share (of high-pressure cricket), that’s done.”
Health Considerations
De Villiers also mentioned that his eyesight, particularly his left eye, is a bit blurry. Despite this, he is considering playing casual cricket for the enjoyment of his children and to relive the joy of the game. He added, “I’m doing it for my kids and see if I can go out there and enjoy cricket again.”
Legacy and Future
AB de Villiers is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and innovative batsmen in cricket history. His potential return to the sport, even in a casual capacity, would be welcomed by fans and players alike. However, as of now, there is no official confirmation regarding his comeback.
For more updates on AB de Villiers and his potential return to cricket, stay tuned to official cricket news outlets.