If you grew up watching cricket in the 2000s, you probably remember AB de Villiers flashing a smile and a 360‑degree scoop that left bowlers scratching their heads. Born in Bloemfontein in 1984, AB turned his childhood love for the sport into a career that broke every rule you thought existed about batting. He started with the South African U‑19 side, burst onto the senior team in 2004, and never looked back.
First off, the numbers are jaw‑dropping. He holds the fastest ODI century – 31 balls – a record that still stands. In Test cricket, he amassed over 8,000 runs with an average above 45, proving he could dominate both formats. But it’s not just the stats. AB’s ability to switch from a defensive block to a full‑tilt slog in a single over made him the answer to every tricky situation. Whether it was a reverse sweep against a fast bowler or a helicopter shot off a spinner, he turned the field into his playground.
AB’s versatility also shone in T20 leagues. He spent several seasons with the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, where his quick‑fire 70‑plus scores often changed match outcomes. Fans loved his fearless approach, and teammates appreciated his calm leadership in the dressing room.
In 2021, AB announced his retirement from international cricket, citing family time and a desire to explore new challenges. Since then, he’s turned his attention to coaching, commentary, and business ventures. He’s a regular voice on cricket panels, breaking down matches with the same insight that kept him ahead on the field.
Outside the boundary, AB runs a sports academy in South Africa, nurturing young talent and sharing his unconventional techniques. He’s also involved in charity work, especially initiatives that promote education and sport in under‑privileged communities. If you want to catch him live, look for his appearances in T20 franchise leagues and occasional charity matches – he still loves the thrill of a ball hitting the bat.
For fans wanting to stay updated, follow AB’s official social channels. He often posts training videos, behind‑the‑scenes footage from his academy, and personal moments that give a glimpse into life beyond the stadium. Whether you’re a budding cricketer or just love great sports stories, AB de Villiers offers a roadmap of how passion, creativity, and hard work can reshape a game.
So, next time you watch a spectacular scoop or a daring reverse hit, remember the man who made it look effortless. AB de Villiers isn’t just a name in the record books – he’s a reminder that cricket can be both an art and a playground.
AB de Villiers rolled back the years with a sensational 39-ball century for South Africa Champions, hitting 123 off 46 balls against Australia Champions in the World Championship of Legends 2025. His vintage power-hitting led to a 95-run win and reignited conversations about his legacy.