AB de Villiers Hints at IPL Return in a New Role

South African legend AB de Villiers, who retired from all forms of cricket in 2021, has now hinted at a possible return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) — but not as a player. The former superstar expressed his interest in rejoining his old franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), in a coaching or mentoring role.

De Villiers said,"It’s no longer possible for me to take on a full-time professional role throughout the season. But in the future, I might get involved with the IPL in a different capacity. My heart will always remain with RCB. When the time is right and the franchise wants it, I will definitely be part of RCB again."

De Villiers began his IPL journey in 2008 with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) before moving to RCB in 2011, where he spent the majority of his career. During his time in Bengaluru, he became a fan favorite, scoring 4,522 runs in 157 matches at an impressive average of 41.10 and a blazing strike rate of 158.33. His contributions included two centuries and 37 half-centuries.

One of his most iconic moments came in the 2016 IPL season, when he and Virat Kohli stitched together a record 229-run partnership for the second wicket against Gujarat Lions — still the highest partnership in IPL history. That season, de Villiers scored 687 runs, finishing third on the tournament’s run charts.

Across his IPL career, spanning 184 matches for two franchises, de Villiers amassed 5,162 runs at a strike rate of 151.68, with three centuries and 40 half-centuries. In 2022, he was inducted into the RCB Hall of Fame alongside Chris Gayle.

Now, with coaching or mentoring on his mind, RCB fans could once again see their beloved “Mr. 360” in the dugout — this time guiding the next generation.