AB de Villiers hints at possible comeback at 40, but rules out return to RCB: 'I don't want to face that same pressure'

"I haven't ruled out the possibility of playing cricket again. My kids are really keen on the idea and keep pushing me to join them in the nets. Who knows, maybe one day I'll give it a shot," de Villiers revealed, mentioning his three children—Abraham, John, and Yente.

De Villiers, who retired from all forms of cricket in November 2021 to prioritize family time, hinted at stepping back onto the field but clarified that it would be purely for enjoyment. "My boy could feel me bowling machine balls... maybe I will walk out and play a bit of casual cricket somewhere," he added.

While de Villiers continues to remain active in the cricketing world as the brand ambassador of the ongoing SA20 and through his roles in charity and broadcasting, his heart seems set on rekindling a lighter version of his cricketing passion.

"I am talking on a more serious note, actually, of playing some real cricket – not professional IPL or SA20 stuff – but who knows? I have had my fair share (of high-pressure cricket), that's done," he said.

However, the idea is not without its hurdles. De Villiers candidly admitted to struggling with his eyesight, particularly his left eye. "This right one is the dominant one, it is working fine. I am doing it for my kids and see if I can go out there and enjoy cricket again. Even if it is very casual and see where we draw the line."

Not RCB, don't want to feel pressure again

Despite ruling out a return to the IPL or his beloved Royal Challengers Bengaluru, de Villiers remains enthusiastic about embracing cricket on his own terms. "We are not talking RCB and some stuff. I don't want to feel that pressure again. Wherever I go, I would want to have a bit of fun," he remarked.

Known as ‘Mr. 360’ for his extraordinary stroke play, de Villiers’ legacy includes over 20,000 international runs and records for the fastest 50, 100, and 150 in ODIs. His potential return, even in a casual capacity, would undoubtedly delight fans worldwide.

Stay informed with the latest updates on live cricket score, cricket players, match schedules and ICC rankings. Keep an eye on your favourite cricket team, including the stellar performances of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Check out the cricket schedule, WTC 2025 Points Table track team standings and dive into player stats and rankings on Crickit powered by Hindustan Times website and app. .freemium-card h4{color:#fff; padding-bottom:20px;} .freemium-card .freemium-content .subcTxt{padding-bottom:16px; color:#fff;} .freemium-card .freemium-content{width: auto; max-width: inherit;} .freemium-card .freemium-content .subcTxt{max-width:inherit; font-size:18px; padding-top:0; line-height:24px} .freemium-card .btnSubc{margin} .freemium-card .btnSubc a{background:#000; color:#fff; min-width:auto; padding:5px 15px; border-radius:6px; font-size:16px; line-height:22px; font-weight:700;} .freemium-card{height:285px} @media (max-width: 767px) { .freemium-card h4{font-size:28px} .freemium-card .freemium-content{max-width:360px; padding: 20px;} .freemium-card{height:303px; background-position: 100% 0; } }