The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to kick off in Pakistan and the UAE, with the tournament promising to deliver plenty of exciting cricket. The 8-team event, scheduled to begin from February 19, will see the best teams in world cricket battle it out for supremacy. As one of the most prestigious tournaments in the cricket calendar, it is sure to enterta??in fans with thrilling contests and high stakes.

High expectations from Team India

India, who finished as runners-up in the previous edition of the Champions Trophy, will have huge expectations on their shoulders going into the 2025 tournament. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, has been in stellar form across formats,?? with a lineup that boasts a mix of experienced players and exciting young talent. Given their performance in recent tournaments, including their dominance in the 2024 T20 World Cup, India are expected to make a deep run in the competition and will certainly be one of the ??favorites to lift the trophy.

Also READ: AB de Villiers n??ames the most dangerous team of Champions Trophy 2025

AB de Villiers names India’s X Factor for the tournament

In a recent interaction on his YouTube channel, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers, shared his thoughts on the X-factor player for India in the upcoming Champions Trophy. De Villiers reckoned that Kuldeep Yadav, the talented left-arm wrist spinner, could pla??y a pivotal role for India in the UAE.

“Kuldeep Yadav is also in the Indian team, who I think can prove to be an X-factor for India. India is going to play its matches in Dubai. Spinners can get an advantage on the pitch there. Kuldeep can perform well for India,” said de Villiers.

Notably, the Champions Trophy will be held in conditions that suit?? spinners, and Kuldeep’s ability to turn the ball sharply and create pressure could make him a key player for India’s success in the tournament. With his diverse skills, the ability to pick wickets in crucial moments, and his reputation on the big stage, Kuldeep could very well be the difference-maker for India in the global event.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar predicts the finalists of Champions Trophy 2025

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AB de Villiers, widely regarded as one of the most innovative cricketers in history, has announced his return to cricket after nearly four years of retirement. Known as “Mr. 360” for his ability to play shots all around the ground, the South African maestro had retired from international cricket in 2018, citing physical demands and a desire to spend more time with family. In 2021, he bid farewell to all forms of cricket after his final stint with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

AB de Villiers’ return to cricket after four years

However, his love for the game has reignited, as de Villiers prepares to lead the Game Changers South Africa Champions in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL).  De Villiers attributes his comeback to moments spent playing cricket with his young sons in ?the garden. With this renewed enthusiasm, he has committed to returning to the gym and nets to prepare for the WCL in July.

“Four years ago, I retired from all cricket because I just didn’t feel the urge to play anymore. Well, time has passed, and my young sons have started playing the game. We’ve been playing more and more often in the garden, and it feels as though some kind of flame has been lit again. So I am heading back to the gym and the nets, and I’ll be ready for the WCL in July,” De Villiers was quoted as saying by the ANI.

It’s official. I will be playing for the South African team @WCLSAChampions in the upcoming @WclLeague 2025! 🌟

Mark y??our calendars: the tournament runs from 18th July to 2nd August.

Can’t wait to renew rivalry with so many legends from five other countries. I’m heading to the�pic.twitter.com/4GnUwdP8LB

— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) January 28, 2025

Also READ: AB de ?Villiers names the most dangerous team of Champions Trophy 2025

The WCL T20 tournament, featuring retired and non-contracted legends of the game, provides a nostalgic platform for fans to relive cricket’s golden era. De Villiersâ€?leadership of the Game Changers South Africa Champions, a team that previously included greats like Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn and Herschelle Gibbs promises to elevate the tournament’s excitement.

Amandeep Singh, co-owner of the South Africa Champions, expressed his joy, stating, “We are honoured to compete in the World Championship of Legends and showcase the incredible talent of our cricketing greats. AB de Villiers’ return as our captain is a monumental boost for our team, and his leadership will undoubtedly inspire us to new heights,” 

De Villiers: A legacy that shines bright

De Villiers’ batting and fielding stats reflect his exceptional contribution to South African cricket. Across 114 Test matches, he scored 8,765 runs at an average of 50.66, with a highest score of 278 not out. In ODIs, de Villiers amassed 9,577 runs in 228 matches at a remarkable average of 53.50, including 25 centuries and 53 half-centuries. In T20Is, he made 1,672 runs in 78 matches, showcasing his aggressive style with a strike rate of 135.16.

As a fielder, he took 222 catches in Tests, 176 in ODIs, and 65 in T20Is, alongside contributing with his occasional wicketkeeping. His legacy for South Africa is defined not just by his runs but his adaptability, innovation, and leadership on the field, leaving an indelible mark on the game. Inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2024, his return has generated immense excitement among fans and the cricketing fraternity. At 41, de Villiers is set to remind the world of hi?s unmatched versatility and fearless batting, ensuring his remarkab??le career continues to inspire generations.

Also READ: AB de Villiers names his?? choice for RCB captain i??n IPL 2025

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, and cricket fans worldwide are buzzing with excitement. Co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, the tournament marks the return of one of cricket’s most prestigious events after an eight-year hiatus. With its compact format and high stakes, the Champions Trophy has always delivered nail-biting contests and unforgettable moments. The unique hosting arrangement promises a blend of subcontinental fervor and world-class facilities in the UAE, ensuring an electrifying atmosphere for players and spectators alike.

Eight teams battle for cricketing glory

The Champions Trophy features the top eight cricketing nations, making it a fiercely competitive tournament. Every team has the potential to lift the coveted trophy, and with evenly matched squads, the battles are expected to be intense. From defending champions Pakistan to perennial favorites Australia and India, each side boasts star players capable of turning games on their heads. Fans ar??e gearing up to witness thrilling rivalries, tactical masterstrokes, and exceptional individua??l performances in what promises to be a cricketing spectacle.

Also READ: Harbhajan Singh predicts the 4 semifinalists of Champions Troph?y 2025

AB de Villiers picks the most dangerous team of Champions Trophy 2025

Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers has weighed in on the tournament, naming India as the most dangerous team of the Champions Trophy 2025. He stated that to win big ICC events, a team needs its batters to deliver at their best, and India has all the necessary options to achieve that. With a blend of?? talent, depth, and experience, De Villiers reckoned India possesses the perfect combination to emerge as champions in the u??pcoming tournament.

“India has great batting options. India has done this because if you want to win a big ICC event, you have to show the best from the batsmen. India has all the options and this team looks the most dangerous to me. The team has all the options that can make this team a champion,” said De Villiers as quoted by NDTV.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Mohammad Asif predicts the four semi-finalists of Champions Trophy 2?025

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South African cricket legend AB de Villiers added an element of mystery and humor to the 12th match of the SA20 2025 between Pretoria Capitals and Paarl Royals. The iconic ?former cricketer, known for his stellar career with both the? South African national team and various franchises around the world, decided to attend the game in disguise. Rather than appearing in his usual high-profile manner, De Villiers blended in with the crowd, enjoying the match as a regular fan.

AB de Villiers’ elaborate disguise to avoid attention

In a move that captured the imaginat??ion of fans, De Villiers went to great lengths to conceal his identity?. Given his immense popularity, it’s not uncommon for the legendary batter to be inundated with attention whenever he steps out in public. To avoid the usual fanfare and to enjoy the game between the Pretoria Capitals and Paarl Royals without disturbance, De Villiers opted for a humorous and elaborate disguise.

Before the match, he donned a fake big beard, a wig, and dark sunglasses, transforming his appearance to the point where it became nearly impossible to recognize him. This clever makeover obscured around 90% of his face, allowing him to blend in seamlessly with the other spectators. His wife, Danielle, joined him for the outing, but the pair still kept a low profile throughout the game. The lighthearted approach allowed the former wicketkeeper-batter to enjoy the?? atmosphere of the match, especially as he supported his home team, the Pretoria Capitals.

Here is the video:

I shared my experience of going to the @SA20_League, in disguise, as a fan, in this week’s #360Show.

??I also stepped back into the nets for a bit of cricket coaching session.

Watch all that in this week’s episode: //t.co/1r89foPVxC pic.twitter.com/RVVQfRuEcY

— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) January 23, 2025

Also WATCH: Heinrich Klaase??n takes an incredible flying catch to dismiss Joe ??Root for a golden duck | SA20 2025

SA20 2025: A thrilling season so far

The third edition of the SA20 league has been an action-packed spectacle filled with high-octane cricket and fierce competition. With the tournament nearing its climax, excitement is building towards the final match on February 8th at Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. As of now, Paarl Royals sit at the top of the points table, with 5 wins and only one loss. ??Their strong form has placed them in a prime position.

In individual performances, Lhuan-dre Gilbert Pretorius of Paarl Royals leads the run-scoring charts with an impressive 258 runs. Meanwhile, Marco Jansen of Sunrisers Eastern Cape has claimed 10 wickets, making him the tournament’s top wicket-taker so far. The competitive nature of the league has ensured that each match is full of suspense and edge-of-the-seat moments, keeping fans eagerly anticipating each encounter.

Also WATCH: Jimmy Neesham takes an abs?olute blinder to dismiss Liam Dawson in the SA20 2025

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As IPL 2025 approaches, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans are brimming with anticipation. With a strong core of players, the franchise looks well-equipped to challenge for their maiden IPL title. Leading the batting charge will be Virat Kohli, who remains the heart of the team. RCB have also some star players this season like explosive all-rounder Liam Livingstone, consistent batter Rajat Patidar, and experienced pace duo of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, forming a balanced squad. After narrowly missing out on the playoffs last season, the team will be eager ?to turn their fortunes around in 2025.

RCB captaincy for IPL 2025: A mystery yet to be solved

One of the biggest talking points for RCB ahead of IPL 2025 is the captaincy conundrum. Last season, Faf du Plessis led the team, but his release ahea??d of the IPL 2025 auction has left fans wondering who will take the reins this year. While Kohli stepped down from the role in 2021, his name has been floated as a possible candidate, given his immense experience and form. However, RCB haven’t yet announced their decision, keeping the fans guessing as the next season nears.

Also READ: “Not talking RCBâ€?#8221;: AB de Villiers hints at his return to the cricket field

AB de Villiers names his pick for RCB captain

Amid the ongoing captaincy speculation, RCB legend AB de Villiers has voiced his support for Kohli to return as skipper. De Villiers believes Kohli’s current form and passion make him the?? idea?l choice to lead the team in what could be a defining phase of his career.

“Friends, I think Virat Kohli is the only option [for RCB’s captaincy choice]. He is near the end of his career, more inspired than ever before. Till the time he gets the form and scores runs, we are used to watching him play match-winning innings. It’s like a swansong,” said De Villiers on his YouTube channel.

De Villiers�endorsement ??adds weight to the argument for Kohli’s captaincy, as the duo shared a close partnership during their time together at RCB. With Kohli motivated to end his IPL journey on a high, his leadership could be the key to RCB’s quest for their elusive title.

Also READ: IPL vs PSL salary comparison: Most expensive players f?or the 2025 season

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In a surprising revelation, former South Africa cricket star AB de Villiers has hinted at the possibility of returning to the cricket field. However, fans of  Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be disappointed as De Villiers has explicitly ruled out a comeback to the IPL or profe??ssional cricket. The legendary batter, who retired from international cricket in 2018 and last played for RCB in the 2021 IPL season, shared his thoughts during a recent interaction.

No IPL, no RCB: AB de Villiers prefers a casual approach

De Villiers hinted at his possible return to casual cricket, influenced by his children’s encouragement. He mentioned feeling motivated to visit the nets with them and possibly playing informal?? matches for enjoyment while ruling out a return to professional cricket, including the IPL with RCB or international tours with South Africa.

“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. if I enjoy it, maybe I’ll walk out and go and play a little bit of casual cricket somewhere again and not professional IPL stuff or SA tours,” De Villiers said in an interview with journalist Melinda Farrell as quoted by Times of India.

Also READ: Umesh Yada??v expresses frustration after going unsold in? IPL 2025 mega auction

“We’re not talking about RCB”

When asked about similarities regarding his potential comeback with former teammate Imran Tahir, who plays franch??ise cricket post-retirement, De Villiers expressed ?admiration for his teammates and hinted at a casual partnership. He joked about including Tahir in his team, calling him one of his favourite players, but clarified that it was not serious.

The Proteas star emphas??ized avoiding the pressures ?of professional cricket, including RCB or international matches, and instead focusing on playing purely for fun.

“I’ll maybe ask him to be in my team wherever I go. Just remember this: he’s one of my favourite players. Nothing serious, though. We’re not talking about RCB and big stuff. Yes, I don’t want to feel that pressure again. That’s the thing. So, wherever I go, I’ll have a bit of fun,” he added.

Also READ: LSG’s new ??captain Rishabh Pant discloses the team he thought would pick him in the IPL 2025 auction

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The highly anticipated 2025 edition of the SA20 league is set to kick off on January 9 at St George’s Park, Gqeberha, with Sunrisers Eastern Cape facing MI Cape Town in the opening match. This season marks a significant milestone as Dinesh Karthik becomes the first Indian cricketer to feature in the league, playing for the Paarl Royals, a sister franchise of IPL’s Rajasthan Royals.

AB de Villiers expresses desire for Indian players in SA20

South African cricket legend AB de Villiers, who serves as the brand ambassador for the league, voiced his enthusiasm for Indian players participating in SA20. In a recent media interaction, De Villiers praised the inclusion of Karthik and hoped the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would allow more Indian cricketers to ?join the tournament in the ??future.

“I would love to see more Indian players involved. We know Dinesh Karthik will be here this year, which is fantastic and great for the tournament. Hopefully, the BCCI will allow us to get more Indian players in the future to join the fun of the SA20,” said De Villiers.

Also READ: South Africa legend Allan Donald? picks two Indian stars he would love to see in SA20 league

De Villiers picks five Indian stars to feature in the tournament

While acknowledging the challenges posed by BCCI’s current policy, which restricts active Indian players from competing in overseas leagues, De Villiers shared his dream picks for the SA20. He expressed his desire to see Indian players, particularly those at the peak of their careers, participate in the SA20 league, emphasizing the excitement and quality they would bring. De Villiers highlighted his top picks from the current crop of Indian cricketers, naming Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav as players he would lov?e to see in action in South Africa.

“It would be nice to see some Indian players, especially in the peak form of their careers, come over and play. If I had to pick, I’d choose all the current players: Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Virat, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav,” he revealed.

De Villiers highlighted the excitement that players like Suryakumar could bri??ng to the league.

“Imagine SKY playing here â€?that would be amazing!” De Villiers exclaimed.

De Villiers appeals for some retired Indian players

De Villiers reflected on former Indian cricketers who could bring value ?to the SA20 league, naming Robin Uthappa, and Irfan Pathan as potential players he would love to see participate. He noted that some of these retired stars are already active in va??rious Masters Leagues globally, showcasing their enduring skills and appeal.

“If I think about past players, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik, or maybe even Irfan Pathan come to mind. Some of these players already participate in Masters Leagues around the world,” he added.

Also READ: From Kevin Pietersen? to AB de Villiers: Here’s the elite panel of commentators for SA20 2025

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The highly anticipated third edition of the SA20 cricket league is set to kick off on Thursday (January 9), featuring an exciting opening clash between defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. As excitement builds for the tournament, SA20 brand ambassador and legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers shared his thoughts with select media out?lets, offering insights into the league’s potential and players to watch.

AB de Villiers’ player to watch out for in the SA20 2025

When asked about a standout player for SA20 Season 3, De Villiers did not hesitate to name Donovan Ferreira, a hard-hitting South African batter and a new recruit for the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the upcoming IPL 2025. Ferreira, who was acquired for INR 75 lakh in the IPL 2025 mega auction, transitioned from Rajasthan Royals (RR) to Delhi. Representing Joburg Super Kings in the SA20, the sister franchise of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Ferre?ira has caught the attention of cricket pundits.

”I think one player that stands out, and I don’t often or haven’t, spoken about him in the past regularly is Donovan Ferreira. And the only sad thing there is he bats too low in the order to really showcase his his true potential. He’s they’re all a bit older, where Donovan Ferreira is also not the youngest anymore. But I just haven’t seen enough of him and I wish they could push him in at number 3 or 4 just from time to time for us to see what he’s really capable of. So that’ll be my pick. Hopefully, this season, will be his season of getting more game time and more time up the order,” De Villiers was quoted as saying by the Khel Now.

De Villiers reiterated the importance of utilizing Ferreira higher up the order, as the batter often comes in ??too late to make a substantial impact. He explained that Ferreira typically enters the game in the 16th or 17th over, leaving him with insufficient balls to display his full range of skills.

‘‘I think he bats at number 6, and he showcased a little bit of what he’s capable of in that last season once or twice, but just not enough balls. I really hope he could come in from overs 6 onwards, you know, and sometimes overs 8, where more often than not, he comes in only at 16th or 17th over. Really shows his skill and then he’s out again. He’s off and the balls are done. So that’s one guy I would keep an eye out for,” the 40-year-old added.

Also READ: South Africa leg?end Allan Donald picks two Indian stars he would ??love to see in SA20 league

Comparisons with MS Dhoni and batting challenges

De Villiers, renowned for his 360-degree shot-making ability, made an intriguing comparison, stating that Ferreira reminded him of MS Dhoni during his prime years. Interestingly, de Villiers compared Ferreira’s batting style to Dhoni in his prime-noting the similar ability to dominate bowlers and strike fear into world-class players like Dale Steyn and Mitchell Starc. While he clarified that he wasn’t directly equating Ferreira to Dhoni, he emphasized Ferreira’s ability to hit the ball with incredible power and precision.

“I think he’s a he’s a out and out match winner. Just a fantastic player. He reminds me a bit of MS Dhoni in his prime, and it’s that I’m not comparing them. I’m saying he reminds me of him where MS was really brutal, against the bowlers. He really bludgeoned the ball, all parts of the ground. He made guys like Dale Steyn, Mitchell Starke look like they are scared to bowl to him. And that’s the feeling I get with Donovan. Hits the ball so hard. He’s got such a good eye, and, hopefully, he will face a few more more deliveries in this coming season,” De Villiers concluded.

Also READ: From Kevin Pietersen to A??B de Villiers: Here’s the elite ?panel of commentators for SA20 2025

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