Come Back, GOAT: AB de Villiers hits 37-ball WCL century to spark IPL return calls
AB de Villiers has given cricket fans another reason to dream of seeing him back in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The South African great smashed a breathtaking 37-ball century against Australia in the World Championship of Legends (WCL), prompting fans to urge the 42-year-old to register for the IPL 2027 auction, scheduled to be held in December.
De Villiers’ explosive knock showcased the extraordinary ball-striking ability that made him one of the most feared batters in the IPL. His performance has reignited conversations about whether the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star could make a sensational return to the tournament.
In two matches in the WCL, de Villiers has amassed 181 runs at an average of 181 and a remarkable strike rate of 229.11. Those numbers have strengthened the argument among fans that his ability to clear the boundary and change a match in a matter of overs remains undiminished.
FANS FLOOD SOCIAL MEDIA WITH REQUESTS FOR IPL COMEBACK
Against Australia Champions, de Villiers remained unbeaten on 111 off just 40 balls, smashing six fours and 11 sixes to help South Africa Champions chase down 210 in 15.4 overs. His innings was a reminder of the audacious strokeplay that made him a fan favourite during his IPL career.
Fans were quick to express their desire to see the South African legend back in the IPL, with many urging him to enter the player auction.
“Ain’t joking, AB de Villiers would still toy with the current IPL bowlers. Come back, my GOAT!” one fan wrote.
“Ab de villiers please put your name in this ipl auction please….” another fan wrote.
“Undoubtedly, if 42-year-old GOAT AB de Villiers enters the IPL auction, he will be the most valuable player in IPL history,” another fan wrote.
De Villiers retired from the IPL and all forms of cricket in November 2021, bringing an end to a celebrated career with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He scored 5,162 runs in 184 IPL matches, including 4,491 runs for RCB?
Now 42, de Villiers will turn 43 in February 2027, before the next IPL season begins. Whether de Villiers will register for the auction remains unknown.
His remarkable WCL form, however, has reignited the dream among fans of seeing the iconic batter back in IPL colours. For supporters who still remember his breathtaking innings and match-winning performances, the message is clear: they want their GOAT back.
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