The World Championship of Legends 2025 wasn’t built for heroics — it was designed to bring back memories. But AB de Villiers brought more than nostalgia. He brought consistency, class, and calm dominance.
At 41, he didn’t just play well — he set the standard. While others adjusted back into rhythm, AB looked like he never left.
A Measured Return, Not a Comeback
Legends tournaments are usually relaxed. Players enjoy the game without pressure. But AB didn’t treat it like an exhibition. He chased targets with intent, fielded like every run mattered, and played each match with quiet focus.
He wasn’t reliving the past. He was setting a tone.
Four Key Innings That Defined the Tournament
🇮🇳 vs India – 63 off 30 balls (Northampton)
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Clean and confident strokeplay
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Set the tone early in the group stage
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Reinforced AB’s intent to play serious cricket
🆚 Australia – 123 off 46 balls (Leeds)
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Century in just 39 balls
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15 boundaries, 8 sixes
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South Africa posted 241
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Controlled aggression, not reckless shots
🆚 England – 116* off 51 balls (Headingley)
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England posted 153
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AB chased it down in just 12.2 overs
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Flawless execution without risks
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South Africa won by 10 wickets
🆚 Pakistan – 120* off 59 or 60 balls (Edgbaston)
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Pakistan posted 195/5 (Sharjeel Khan 76)
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AB remained unbeaten
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South Africa chased the target in 16.5 overs
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Pressure of a final? AB made it look ordinary
His Fielding Still Made a Difference
It wasn’t just about the bat.
Semi-final vs Australia:
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South Africa won by just 1 run
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AB took a diving catch at point
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He also produced the run-out that sealed the game
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At 41, his reflexes were still elite
📊 AB de Villiers – WCL 2025 at a Glance
| Match | Score | Balls | Notable Moment |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs India | 63 | 30 | Powerful start to the tournament |
| vs Australia | 123 | 46 | Century in 39 balls |
| vs England | 116* | 51 | Unbeaten chase in 12.2 overs |
| Final vs Pakistan | 120* | 59/60 | Calm, unbeaten title-winner |
| Semi-final vs AUS | – | – | Match-winning fielding effort |
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Total Runs: Estimated around 429
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Strike Rate: Reportedly over 220
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Average: 143.00
- Awards: Player of the Tournament, Player of the Final
A Year That Delivered Long-Awaited Wins
2025 wasn’t just about personal brilliance for AB — it was about long-overdue team glory.
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RCB ended their IPL drought
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South Africa won the World Test Championship
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South Africa Legends lifted the WCL title
Note: These triumphs, though not part of the WCL, added to the aura of AB’s year.
Important Note: India Withdrew from the Semi-final
India Legends were scheduled to play Pakistan in the WCL semi-final. However, due to political tensions, India officially withdrew, and Pakistan advanced directly to the final. This was one of the tournament’s most debated moments.
Final Thoughts
AB didn’t return for fame. He came back for the game. His batting had purpose, his fielding showed commitment, and his presence elevated every match he played.
Some players fade with time. Others — like AB — prove that the class stays. Quietly, confidently, without needing to say much…
He let the cricket do the talking.
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