Rajasthan leg-spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-ipl-2019-rajasthan-vs-bangalore-207530">Shreyas Gopal</a> tore into the Bangalore batting Tuesday dismissing the two biggest batsmen of world cricket and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a>.

Gopal, the 24-year-old Karnataka bowler, first removed Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli (23) and the destructive AB de Villiers (13) in quick succession.

Gopal deceived Virat Kohli with his turn and clean bowled him. Then, in his next over, he forced AB to go back on his back foot and then spoon an easy catch back to him.

Shreyas Gopal has bowled to Virat Kohli twice in the IPL and dismissed him on both occasions. He has bowled to AB de Villiers on three occasions and has dismissed him on all three.

There's more.&nbsp;

Gopal, one of the many upcoming cricketers from the domestic circuit, had pulled off exactly the same feat a year ago in an IPL 2018 match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Gopal is an all-rounder who bats right-handed and bowls leg spin. He played three ODIs for India’s under-19 cricket team in 2011.

Gopal, who has 183 wickets and 2,283 runs in 55 first-class cricket matches, is also a technically sound batsman.

Rajasthan leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal tore into the Bangalore batting Tuesday dismissing the two biggest batsmen of world cricket and the Indian Premier League. Gopal, the 24-year-old Karnataka bowler, first removed Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli (23) and the destructive AB de Villiers (13) in quick succession.

Rajasthan leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal tore into the Bangalore batting Tuesday dismissing the two biggest batsmen of world cricket and the Indian Premier League. Gopal, the 24-year-old Karnataka bowler, first removed Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli (23) and the destructive AB de Villiers (13) in quick succession. Gopal deceived Virat Kohli with his turn and clean bowled him. Then, in his next over, he forced AB to go back on his back foot and then spoon an easy catch back to him. Shreyas Gopal has bowled to Virat Kohli twice in the IPL and dismissed him on both occasions. He has bowled to AB de Villiers on three occasions and has dismissed him on all three. There's more. Gopal, one of the many upcoming cricketers from the domestic circuit, had pulled off exactly the same feat a year ago in an IPL 2018 match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Gopal is an all-rounder who bats right-handed and bowls leg spin. He played three ODIs for India’s under-19 cricket team in 2011. Gopal, who has 183 wickets and 2,283 runs in 55 first-class cricket matches, is also a technically sound batsman.

Shreyas Gopal scalps Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers in quick succession, repeating exact same feat from a year ago

Mumbai vs Bangalore: From Malinga's arrival to Chahal's form, key players to watch out for

IPL 2019, Chennai vs Bangalore: Players to watch out for

Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli on Saturday bid farewell to South Africa star batsman AB De Villiers after he announced a sudden retirement from all international cricket earlier this week.&nbsp;

Kohli and AB De Villiers play together for Bangalore franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, it is unclear, whether he will return or not for the next year's season.

Terming him his 'brother', Kohli took to his twitter handle to praise the class cricketer. &nbsp;

"Wish you all the best in everything that you do my brother. You've changed the way batting was seen in the time you've played international cricket. My best wishes to you and your family for this amazing journey ahead @ABdeVilliers17," Kohli tweeted.

De Villiers announced his decision on his Twitter handle, claiming to be 'tired and out of gas'. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Wish you all the best in everything that you do my brother. You’ve changed the way batting was seen in the time you’ve played international cricket. My best wishes to you and your family for this amazing journey ahead ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> <a href="https://t.co/uxtRAPl3zA">pic.twitter.com/uxtRAPl3zA</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1000261774657114112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

De Villiers hung his boot with 8,765 runs in 114 Tests with 22 centuries (average 50.66), 9,577 runs in 228 ODIs with 25 centuries and 1,672 runs in 78 T20Is with 10 half-centuries. 
&nbsp;

Kohli took to his Twitter handle to praise the class cricketer.

Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli on Saturday bid farewell to South Africa star batsman AB De Villiers after he announced a sudden retirement from all international cricket earlier this week. Kohli and AB De Villiers play together for Bangalore franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, it is unclear, whether he will return or not for the next year's season. Terming him his 'brother', Kohli took to his twitter handle to praise the class cricketer. "Wish you all the best in everything that you do my brother. You've changed the way batting was seen in the time you've played international cricket. My best wishes to you and your family for this amazing journey ahead @ABdeVilliers17," Kohli tweeted. De Villiers announced his decision on his Twitter handle, claiming to be 'tired and out of gas'. Wish you all the best in everything that you do my brother. You’ve changed the way batting was seen in the time you’ve played international cricket. My best wishes to you and your family for this amazing journey ahead ?? @ABdeVilliers17 pic.twitter.com/uxtRAPl3zA — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) May 26, 2018 × De Villiers hung his boot with 8,765 runs in 114 Tests with 22 centuries (average 50.66), 9,577 runs in 228 ODIs with 25 centuries and 1,672 runs in 78 T20Is with 10 half-centuries.

Virat Kohli bids farewell to 'brother' AB de Villiers

Exactly two years back in May 2016, I watched an IPL T20 Cricket match between Bangalore and Gujarat Lions. South African batsman AB de Villiers (ABD) and Virat Kohli, playing for Bangalore, were decimating Lions' bowling attack. It was an assault with no mercy. ABD was even more destructive and poor Suresh Raina, captain of Gujarat Lions was absolutely clueless on how to stop this juggernaut and rein ABD in. ABD was punishing deliveries irrespective of their merit. He scored a swashbuckling century and Bangalore crushed Gujarat Lions with immaculate ease.

I have been a die-hard fan of this duo (ABD-Kohli) in T20 particularly after that match and never missed a single game of their team Bangalore ever since.

So just when I was trying to cope with the exit of Bangalore from IPL 2018, the second shocker came. ABD announced his retirement from the game. My first reaction was "why, he has plenty, plenty of cricket left him". Just a few days back we saw him decimating bowlers and taking that superman type of catch at the boundary.

Trust me that for me it is not a routine farewell piece for a cricketer. ABD was special and he has been one among my all-time favourite overseas cricketers along with Shane Warne, Viv Richards and Wasim Akram.

The reason is simple and straight. Like other three, ABD has been the only one of his league. ABD is the one who set a unique style of playing and inspired a whole generation to follow him.

His 360-degree style of batting changed the game in its own way. If ABD is on fire, then quality and class of bowling is rather a meaningless term. As a bowler, you were at the mercy of ABD as no matter what you bowl, if ABD had to dispatch it, he would.

On his day, ABD would score with jaw-dropping pace. In January 2015 during an ODI against West Indies, ABD smashed 144 runs in less than an hour. He only faced 44 deliveries and set a world record of fastest ODI hundred in just 31 balls. He led his side with passion in 2015 World Cup and led the proceedings with his bat. South Africa had a heartbreak though as they lost out to New Zealand in the semi-final.

ABD has been one of the best fielders of all-times. The way he ran Simon Katich out in 2006 with his acrobatic stop and throw has become epic to narrate for the generations to come (like Jonty Rhodes’s cruise in the air to dismiss Inzamam in 1992 World Cup).

He is leaving the game while he is still on peak and till now he was spearheading the South African middle order. In the recent Test series against India, it was ABD who played the decisive knock for his side in the first two Test matches and denied India an upper hand.

One last thing. One of the greatest ODI and T-20 batsmen of all times is leaving the game without even a single ICC title for his side. It is sad, very sad.

I remember that when South Africa crashed out of 2015 World Cup, on an Indian Facebook Cricket fans page, a tribute was posted to ABD for missing out the ICC cup yet again and fans hoped that ABD will do this in 2019 for sure. But ABD had some other ideas. He won’t be around in 2019 World Cup.

Bye bye ABD: You will surely be missed by frenzied fans like me.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

His 360-degree style of batting changed the game of cricket in its own way.

Exactly two years back in May 2016, I watched an IPL T20 Cricket match between Bangalore and Gujarat Lions. South African batsman AB de Villiers (ABD) and Virat Kohli, playing for Bangalore, were decimating Lions' bowling attack. It was an assault with no mercy. ABD was even more destructive and poor Suresh Raina, captain of Gujarat Lions was absolutely clueless on how to stop this juggernaut and rein ABD in. ABD was punishing deliveries irrespective of their merit. He scored a swashbuckling century and Bangalore crushed Gujarat Lions with immaculate ease. I have been a die-hard fan of this duo (ABD-Kohli) in T20 particularly after that match and never missed a single game of their team Bangalore ever since. So just when I was trying to cope with the exit of Bangalore from IPL 2018, the second shocker came. ABD announced his retirement from the game. My first reaction was "why, he has plenty, plenty of cricket left him". Just a few days back we saw him decimating bowlers and taking that superman type of catch at the boundary. Trust me that for me it is not a routine farewell piece for a cricketer. ABD was special and he has been one among my all-time favourite overseas cricketers along with Shane Warne, Viv Richards and Wasim Akram. The reason is simple and straight. Like other three, ABD has been the only one of his league. ABD is the one who set a unique style of playing and inspired a whole generation to follow him. His 360-degree style of batting changed the game in its own way. If ABD is on fire, then quality and class of bowling is rather a meaningless term. As a bowler, you were at the mercy of ABD as no matter what you bowl, if ABD had to dispatch it, he would. On his day, ABD would score with jaw-dropping pace. In January 2015 during an ODI against West Indies, ABD smashed 144 runs in less than an hour. He only faced 44 deliveries and set a world record of fastest ODI hundred in just 31 balls. He led his side with passion in 2015 World Cup and led the proceedings with his bat. South Africa had a heartbreak though as they lost out to New Zealand in the semi-final. ABD has been one of the best fielders of all-times. The way he ran Simon Katich out in 2006 with his acrobatic stop and throw has become epic to narrate for the generations to come (like Jonty Rhodes’s cruise in the air to dismiss Inzamam in 1992 World Cup). He is leaving the game while he is still on peak and till now he was spearheading the South African middle order. In the recent Test series against India, it was ABD who played the decisive knock for his side in the first two Test matches and denied India an upper hand. One last thing. One of the greatest ODI and T-20 batsmen of all times is leaving the game without even a single ICC title for his side. It is sad, very sad. I remember that when South Africa crashed out of 2015 World Cup, on an Indian Facebook Cricket fans page, a tribute was posted to ABD for missing out the ICC cup yet again and fans hoped that ABD will do this in 2019 for sure. But ABD had some other ideas. He won’t be around in 2019 World Cup. Bye bye ABD: You will surely be missed by frenzied fans like me. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Blog: AB de Villiers will be terribly missed

South African cricketer AB de Villiers announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, on Wednesday.

&nbsp;The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals.&nbsp;

“I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect,” he said on Wednesday. “After 114 Test matches, 228 ODI’s and 78 T20 Internationals, it is time for others to take over. I have had my turn, and to be honest, I am tired.

“This is a tough decision, I have thought long and hard about it and I’d like to retire while still playing decent cricket. After the fantastic series wins against India and Australia, now feels like the right time to step aside.

“It would not be right for me to pick and choose where, when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in the green and gold, it must be everything or nothing. I will always be grateful to the coaches and staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years. The most important thank you goes out to all of my team mates throughout my career, I wouldn’t be half the player that I am without the support throughout the years.

“It’s not about earning more somewhere else, it’s about running out of gas and feeling that it is the right time to move on. Everything comes to an end. To the cricket fans around South Africa and the World, thank you for your kindness and generosity, and today, for your understanding.

“I have no plans to play overseas, in fact, I hope I can continue to be available for the Titans in domestic cricket. I will continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I’ve made a big decision today <a href="https://t.co/In0jyquPOK">pic.twitter.com/In0jyquPOK</a>
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/999247658995810304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

De Villiers, recently, was part of the Bangalore team in the ongoing 2018 Indian Premier League.

In 12 games, he scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. &nbsp;

Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs and is out from the tournament.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1PM-3zkm1TI" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The 34-year-old has played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals.

South African cricketer AB de Villiers announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, on Wednesday. The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals. “I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect,” he said on Wednesday. “After 114 Test matches, 228 ODI’s and 78 T20 Internationals, it is time for others to take over. I have had my turn, and to be honest, I am tired. “This is a tough decision, I have thought long and hard about it and I’d like to retire while still playing decent cricket. After the fantastic series wins against India and Australia, now feels like the right time to step aside. “It would not be right for me to pick and choose where, when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in the green and gold, it must be everything or nothing. I will always be grateful to the coaches and staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years. The most important thank you goes out to all of my team mates throughout my career, I wouldn’t be half the player that I am without the support throughout the years. “It’s not about earning more somewhere else, it’s about running out of gas and feeling that it is the right time to move on. Everything comes to an end. To the cricket fans around South Africa and the World, thank you for your kindness and generosity, and today, for your understanding. “I have no plans to play overseas, in fact, I hope I can continue to be available for the Titans in domestic cricket. I will continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas.” I’ve made a big decision today pic.twitter.com/In0jyquPOK — AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 23, 2018 × De Villiers, recently, was part of the Bangalore team in the ongoing 2018 Indian Premier League. In 12 games, he scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs and is out from the tournament. ×

AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired'

Former South African skipper AB de Villiers on Wednesday announced retirement from all form of cricket with immediate effect.&nbsp;

He announced the decision on his official Twitter handle.&nbsp;

The right-handed batsman said he is 'tired'&nbsp;and is the right time for him to hang his boots.

Minutes after the decision, his Twitter was flooded with people expressing their surprise over the news.

While some praised his way of playing cricket during crucial stages, some termed him an all time entertainer.&nbsp;

His IPL team Bangalore also raised a question over his sudden decision but wished him luck for his future endeavours.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Sudden but we're confident there was immense thought and contemplation behind the decision. You have to come back to Bengaluru in 2019 ❤️? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mr360?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mr360</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/dWNlH5Ygoo">https://t.co/dWNlH5Ygoo</a>
— Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/999252303650541573?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
AB de Villiers retires from International cricket, one of the two extreme allrounders in cricket along with TM Dilshan. Both batted and bowled in all positions, kept wickets, captained and brilliant fielders. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a>
— Daniel Alexander (@daniel86cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/daniel86cricket/status/999249144555425792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The man who showed the world that batting 360° is an easy task. All the best for your future endeavours <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a>, thank you for all the unforgettable memories! <a href="https://t.co/9r4AAQDKfj">pic.twitter.com/9r4AAQDKfj</a>
— R P Singh (@rpsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rpsingh/status/999255309519544323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Breaking?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Breaking</a> AB de Villiers announces retirement from all forms of international cricket. 
Thank you for all the entertainment, champ <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a>
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaleraosarang/status/999250017914257409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In my opinion, <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> was world's best batsman across formats in past 7-8 years. Wish he had played more Tests! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/deVilliersRetires?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#deVilliersRetires</a>
— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketwallah/status/999251812657090560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1PM-3zkm1TI" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

His IPL team Bangalore was quick to respond on the news

Former South African skipper AB de Villiers on Wednesday announced retirement from all form of cricket with immediate effect. He announced the decision on his official Twitter handle. The right-handed batsman said he is 'tired' and is the right time for him to hang his boots. Minutes after the decision, his Twitter was flooded with people expressing their surprise over the news. While some praised his way of playing cricket during crucial stages, some termed him an all time entertainer. His IPL team Bangalore also raised a question over his sudden decision but wished him luck for his future endeavours. Sudden but we're confident there was immense thought and contemplation behind the decision. You have to come back to Bengaluru in 2019 ❤️? #Mr360 #PlayBold #RCB https://t.co/dWNlH5Ygoo — Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) May 23, 2018 × AB de Villiers retires from International cricket, one of the two extreme allrounders in cricket along with TM Dilshan. Both batted and bowled in all positions, kept wickets, captained and brilliant fielders. #Cricket — Daniel Alexander (@daniel86cricket) May 23, 2018 × The man who showed the world that batting 360° is an easy task. All the best for your future endeavours @ABdeVilliers17, thank you for all the unforgettable memories! pic.twitter.com/9r4AAQDKfj — R P Singh (@rpsingh) May 23, 2018 × #Breaking AB de Villiers announces retirement from all forms of international cricket. Thank you for all the entertainment, champ @ABdeVilliers17 — Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) May 23, 2018 × In my opinion, @ABdeVilliers17 was world's best batsman across formats in past 7-8 years. Wish he had played more Tests! #deVilliersRetires — Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah) May 23, 2018 × The 34-year-old is one of the greatest players of South Africa, having played 114 Tests, 228 One-Day Internationals (ODI) and 78 T20 Internationals. ×

Twitterati raise concern over AB de Villiers' retirement decision

Abraham Benjamin de Villiers or famously known as AB de Villiers, is South Africa's gem batsman with enviable wicketkeeping skills.&nbsp;

The cricketing legend debuted in late 2004 against a visiting England, partnering Graeme Smith as an opener.&nbsp;

In his second Test in the same series, he was given the responsibility of wicket-keeping as a stand-in for the injured Mark Boucher.&nbsp;

The duties led to a demotion in his batting line to the lower order. However, the experiment worked well, yielding a fifty on debut, in the second innings of the Test.&nbsp;

De Villiers announced his arrival with scores of 92 and 109 while opening the innings, in the last of the 5-Test series

In ODIs though, it took a while for him to find his footing, recording his first half-century in his 15th attempt, against Australia.&nbsp;

He was one of South Africa's most consistent performers in all formats. He was one of those players, who had no qualms in being deployed as an opener, middle or lower order batsman, depending on the situation.

The ability to offer dead bats, drives, flicks and pulls and his instinctive nature to innovate in manners, turned de Villiers into one of the most dangerous cricketers.

He has played 228 &nbsp;games and has smashed 9577 runs at an average of 53.5. His highest individual score is 176 runs.

As an accomplished gloveman, he was often called to deputize for Boucher, and with time he was even being touted as his eventual successor.

De Villiers' presence in the batting line up was important in South Africa's return to the pinnacle of cricket, registering historic wins in Australia and going on a 3-year unbeaten run since 2007.&nbsp;

He helped South Africa to a semi-final berth in the 2007 ICC Cricket World World Cup, restoring respectability after a poor showing in the tournament's previous edition.&nbsp;

If we see the T20I format, then the cricket legend has 1672 runs in his kitty of just 78 game played.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-retires-from-all-forms-of-cricket-with-immediate-effect-says-i-am-tired-139205">AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired'</a>

Consistent performances over the years gave the Proteas a new ODI captain in de Villiers, when he replaced Graeme Smith in 2011, post the ICC Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

After proving his class in the Test arena, he was the number one batsman in ODIs as well as in Tests on a number of occasions.

De Villiers has played 114 Tests and has scored 8765 runs at an average of &nbsp;50.66, with unbeaten 278 being his highest score.

De Villiers was a hot-buy in the Indian T20 League and he started off representing Delhi until he moved to Bangalore for the later seasons.&nbsp;

AB was also one of the players to have been retained by Bangalore in 2014.&nbsp;

In 141 games in the Indian Premier League, since its inception in 2008, De Villiers has made 3953 runs in 141 matches. He has smashed three centuries and 28 half-centuries.&nbsp;

In 2018, he played 12 games for the Virat kohli-led side and scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. &nbsp;

Though Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs, De Villiers left an impression that there is still a lot of cricket left in him.&nbsp;

But, the South African star today announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect.&nbsp;

While some fans raised serious doubts over his retirement decision many wished him luck for his future plans.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1PM-3zkm1TI" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The cricketing legend debuted in late 2004 against a visiting England.

Abraham Benjamin de Villiers or famously known as AB de Villiers, is South Africa's gem batsman with enviable wicketkeeping skills. The cricketing legend debuted in late 2004 against a visiting England, partnering Graeme Smith as an opener. In his second Test in the same series, he was given the responsibility of wicket-keeping as a stand-in for the injured Mark Boucher. The duties led to a demotion in his batting line to the lower order. However, the experiment worked well, yielding a fifty on debut, in the second innings of the Test. De Villiers announced his arrival with scores of 92 and 109 while opening the innings, in the last of the 5-Test series In ODIs though, it took a while for him to find his footing, recording his first half-century in his 15th attempt, against Australia. He was one of South Africa's most consistent performers in all formats. He was one of those players, who had no qualms in being deployed as an opener, middle or lower order batsman, depending on the situation. The ability to offer dead bats, drives, flicks and pulls and his instinctive nature to innovate in manners, turned de Villiers into one of the most dangerous cricketers. He has played 228 games and has smashed 9577 runs at an average of 53.5. His highest individual score is 176 runs. As an accomplished gloveman, he was often called to deputize for Boucher, and with time he was even being touted as his eventual successor. De Villiers' presence in the batting line up was important in South Africa's return to the pinnacle of cricket, registering historic wins in Australia and going on a 3-year unbeaten run since 2007. He helped South Africa to a semi-final berth in the 2007 ICC Cricket World World Cup, restoring respectability after a poor showing in the tournament's previous edition. If we see the T20I format, then the cricket legend has 1672 runs in his kitty of just 78 game played. Also read: AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired' Consistent performances over the years gave the Proteas a new ODI captain in de Villiers, when he replaced Graeme Smith in 2011, post the ICC Cricket World Cup. After proving his class in the Test arena, he was the number one batsman in ODIs as well as in Tests on a number of occasions. De Villiers has played 114 Tests and has scored 8765 runs at an average of 50.66, with unbeaten 278 being his highest score. De Villiers was a hot-buy in the Indian T20 League and he started off representing Delhi until he moved to Bangalore for the later seasons. AB was also one of the players to have been retained by Bangalore in 2014. In 141 games in the Indian Premier League, since its inception in 2008, De Villiers has made 3953 runs in 141 matches. He has smashed three centuries and 28 half-centuries. In 2018, he played 12 games for the Virat kohli-led side and scored 480 runs which include six half-centuries. Though Bangalore failed to make it to the play-offs, De Villiers left an impression that there is still a lot of cricket left in him. But, the South African star today announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect. While some fans raised serious doubts over his retirement decision many wished him luck for his future plans. ×

AB de Villiers: Mr 360 degree and his cricketing career

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-retires-from-all-forms-of-cricket-with-immediate-effect-says-i-am-tired-139205">AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired'</a>

South African cricketer AB de Villiers announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, on Wednesday.

&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hd-kumaraswamy-sworn-in-as-karnataka-cm-amid-opposition-show-of-unity-139226">HD Kumaraswamy sworn in as Karnataka CM amid opposition show of unity</a>

After swearing in, Kumaraswamy will have to prove majority on the floor of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on May 25.&nbsp 
&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-in-tns-thootukudi-where-11-died-police-allegedly-used-assault-rifles-to-shoot-at-protesters-139084">Video: In Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin where 11 died, police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at protesters</a>

Thousands of people had hit the streets of Thootukudi (earlier called Tuticorin) Tuesday.

&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-militants-killed-hindu-villagers-in-myanmar-violence-amnesty-international-139009">Rohingya militants killed Hindu villagers in Myanmar: Amnesty International</a>

Senior UN&nbspofficials have said the response amounted to ethnic cleansing and that Myanmar's security forces may have committed genocide.

&nbsp

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-heres-how-michael-jackson-managed-to-pull-off-the-famous-anti-gravity-tilt-139181">Here's how Michael Jackson managed to pull off the famous anti-gravity tilt</a>

According to scientists, the most accomplished dancers can also achieve a tilt of 25 to 3o degrees. So how did Jackson achieve the unachievable?&nbsp

&nbsp

Senior UN officials have said the response amounted to ethnic cleansing and that Myanmar's security forces may have committed genocide.

AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, says 'I am tired' South African cricketer AB de Villiers announced retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, on Wednesday. HD Kumaraswamy sworn in as Karnataka CM amid opposition show of unity After swearing in, Kumaraswamy will have to prove majority on the floor of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on May 25. Video: In Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin where 11 died, police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at protesters Thousands of people had hit the streets of Thootukudi (earlier called Tuticorin) Tuesday. Rohingya militants killed Hindu villagers in Myanmar: Amnesty International Senior UN&nbspofficials have said the response amounted to ethnic cleansing and that Myanmar's security forces may have committed genocide. Here's how Michael Jackson managed to pull off the famous anti-gravity tilt According to scientists, the most accomplished dancers can also achieve a tilt of 25 to 3o degrees. So how did Jackson achieve the unachievable?

IPL 2018: AB de Villiers' acrobatic catch inspires some hilarious memes

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore defeated table-toppers Hyderabad by 14 runs in a must-win match to stay alive in the Indian Premier League at M. Chinnaswamy stadium on Thursday.

The Bangalore team suffered initially but now, somehow have bounced back in the ongoing tournament and the skipper Virat is using all the possible cards from the deck to book a berth in the play-offs.

Not only Virat Kohli, in fact, all the players are giving their 100 per cent in order to move further in IPL 2018.

Like yesterday, while playing against Hyderabad, AB de Villiers took an acrobatic catch and was hailed as a "Spiderman" by captain Virat Kohli.

South African star cricketer leaped on the deep mid-wicket boundary to stop a ball heading for a near-certain six and catch out Hyderabad batsman Alex Hales.

The video of the catch got viral on the social media and on the brilliant efforts of ABD, Virat said, "AB's catch was spiderman stuff, you don't do that as normal human beings," an ecstatic Kohli said after his team's win."

Watch the video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
ABD is from a different planet.. This is absolutely crazy stuff <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/t19ormFJXZ">pic.twitter.com/t19ormFJXZ</a>
— Shahzadiqbal SamaaTv (@ShahzadIqbaal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShahzadIqbaal/status/997397337763958784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Saw <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpiderMan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpiderMan</a> Live today! ?<a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abdevilliers17</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvsSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvsSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/mUuGVKuTn4">pic.twitter.com/mUuGVKuTn4</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/997189855628201985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On the other hand, De Villiers, who has accumulated 427 runs in 11 games including five half-centuries modestly called it a &nbsp"nice catch".

"I made it look better than actually, it was," the 34-year-old said after being adjudged man of the match."Got into a bad position, the ball had a bit of a curve on it. The minute I took the jump, I realized a little bit of my body was outside. I just had to put that right and luckily it stuck."

South African star cricketer leaped on the deep mid-wicket boundary to stop a ball heading for a near-certain six and catch out Hyderabad batsman Alex Hales

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore defeated table-toppers Hyderabad by 14 runs in a must-win match to stay alive in the Indian Premier League at M. Chinnaswamy stadium on Thursday. The Bangalore team suffered initially but now, somehow have bounced back in the ongoing tournament and the skipper Virat is using all the possible cards from the deck to book a berth in the play-offs. Not only Virat Kohli, in fact, all the players are giving their 100 per cent in order to move further in IPL 2018. Like yesterday, while playing against Hyderabad, AB de Villiers took an acrobatic catch and was hailed as a "Spiderman" by captain Virat Kohli. South African star cricketer leaped on the deep mid-wicket boundary to stop a ball heading for a near-certain six and catch out Hyderabad batsman Alex Hales. The video of the catch got viral on the social media and on the brilliant efforts of ABD, Virat said, "AB's catch was spiderman stuff, you don't do that as normal human beings," an ecstatic Kohli said after his team's win." Watch the video here: ABD is from a different planet.. This is absolutely crazy stuff @ABdeVilliers17 #RCBvSRH pic.twitter.com/t19ormFJXZ — Shahzadiqbal SamaaTv (@ShahzadIqbaal) May 18, 2018 × Saw #SpiderMan Live today! ?@abdevilliers17#RCBvsSRH #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/mUuGVKuTn4 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) May 17, 2018 × On the other hand, De Villiers, who has accumulated 427 runs in 11 games including five half-centuries modestly called it a "nice catch". "I made it look better than actually, it was," the 34-year-old said after being adjudged man of the match."Got into a bad position, the ball had a bit of a curve on it. The minute I took the jump, I realized a little bit of my body was outside. I just had to put that right and luckily it stuck."

Watch: AB de Villiers' Spiderman-like stunt to dismiss Alex Hales

Punjab and Bangalore will face each other at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore today.

While Punjab stand at the third position in the IPL table with 12 points, Bangalore is placed at seventh place with 8 points. &nbsp;

So, let us take a look at the players expected to perform in today's big clash.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
1. KL Rahul - Punjab's KL Rahul had an impressive start to the new edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). The right-handed batsman made history by scoring the fastest fifty in IPL. He took just 14 balls to reach his half-century. In his last match against Kolkata, he smashed 66 runs off just 29 balls. He slammed huge seven sixes as well. He is the highest run-scorer of IPL this season with 582 runs. Bangalore would be wary of this batsman who is sure to put on an unpredictable performance today.

2. Virat Kohli - The Bangalore skipper played a spectacular knock to help his team recover from the early losses. He made 70 runs in just 40 balls which included seven boundaries and three sixes. Altogether, he scored 466 runs in 11 matches with an unbeaten 92 being his highest but failed as a skipper to take his team at the top this season.&nbsp;

3. AB de Villiers - The batsman helped Bangalore register their fourth victory in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). After skipper Kohli lost his wicket, de Villiers continued his attack and single-handedly took the team to victory side. He remained unbeaten, made 72 runs in just 37 balls and slammed four boundaries and six huge sixes.&nbsp;

4. Andrew Tye - &nbsp;Tye knocked out four crucial players of Kolkata -- Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa and Andre Russell in his previous game. The Punjab bowler is capable of swinging wickets to help his side qualify for the playoffs. With 18 wickets in his hand, he owns the 'Purple Cap'.&nbsp;

5. Yuzvendra Chahal - The M.Chinnaswamy Stadium is known to a be a deathbed for bowlers in general- flat pitches, small grounds to go with the big bats. However, Yuzvendra Chahal has managed to make his mark. He is the trump card for Virat Kohli's side. He took two important wickets of Delhi players in the previous game. He would be hoping to continue his form today also. &nbsp;

Bangalore has nothing much to lose today and will, therefore, play every card to stop Punjab.&nbsp;

While Punjab stand at the third position in the IPL table with 12 points, Bangalore is placed at seventh place with 8 points

Punjab and Bangalore will face each other at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore today. While Punjab stand at the third position in the IPL table with 12 points, Bangalore is placed at seventh place with 8 points. So, let us take a look at the players expected to perform in today's big clash. 1. KL Rahul - Punjab's KL Rahul had an impressive start to the new edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). The right-handed batsman made history by scoring the fastest fifty in IPL. He took just 14 balls to reach his half-century. In his last match against Kolkata, he smashed 66 runs off just 29 balls. He slammed huge seven sixes as well. He is the highest run-scorer of IPL this season with 582 runs. Bangalore would be wary of this batsman who is sure to put on an unpredictable performance today. 2. Virat Kohli - The Bangalore skipper played a spectacular knock to help his team recover from the early losses. He made 70 runs in just 40 balls which included seven boundaries and three sixes. Altogether, he scored 466 runs in 11 matches with an unbeaten 92 being his highest but failed as a skipper to take his team at the top this season. 3. AB de Villiers - The batsman helped Bangalore register their fourth victory in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). After skipper Kohli lost his wicket, de Villiers continued his attack and single-handedly took the team to victory side. He remained unbeaten, made 72 runs in just 37 balls and slammed four boundaries and six huge sixes. 4. Andrew Tye - Tye knocked out four crucial players of Kolkata -- Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa and Andre Russell in his previous game. The Punjab bowler is capable of swinging wickets to help his side qualify for the playoffs. With 18 wickets in his hand, he owns the 'Purple Cap'. 5. Yuzvendra Chahal - The M.Chinnaswamy Stadium is known to a be a deathbed for bowlers in general- flat pitches, small grounds to go with the big bats. However, Yuzvendra Chahal has managed to make his mark. He is the trump card for Virat Kohli's side. He took two important wickets of Delhi players in the previous game. He would be hoping to continue his form today also. Bangalore has nothing much to lose today and will, therefore, play every card to stop Punjab.

IPL 2018: Players to watch out for in Punjab vs Bangalore clash

AB de Villiers and skipper Virat Kohli together helped Bangalore register their fourth victory in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).

Kohli played a spectacular knock to help the team recover from the early losses.&nbsp

He made 70 runs in just 40 balls which included seven fours and three sixes.

Supported by AB de Villiers at the other end, the two established 100-run partnership.

While Kohli lost his wicket, de Villiers continued his attack and single-handedly took the team to victory side.&nbsp

De Villiers, who remained unbeaten, made 72 runs in just 37 balls. he slammed four boundaries and six huge sixes.&nbsp

Bangalore had a poor start after they lost openers, Parthiv Patel and Moeen Ali, cheaply, while chasing a target of 182 runs set by Delhi on Saturday. &nbsp

For Delhi, Rishabh Pant continued his destructive form with a 34-ball 61 runs.&nbsp

Abhishek Sharma, who hammered an unbeaten 46 off 19 balls, was one of three IPL debutants for Delhi today along-side Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane and South African pacer Junior Dala.

Virat Kohli had won the toss and invited the hosts to bat, playing first, Delhi put up a decent target of 182 runs.

Openers Prithvi Shaw and Jason Roy did not perform and failed to give the necessary start to the team after they lost their wickets to spinner Yuzvendra Chahal after scoring 2 and 12 runs respectively.

Skipper Shreyas Iyer too smashed 32 runs in 35 balls.&nbsp

Pant raced to his fourth fifty of the season off 27 balls and was poised for another big inning.&nbsp

The other set batsman, Iyer, too departed soon after Pant's fall, hurting the innings momentum to leave Delhi at 120 four in 15.1 overs. 
&nbsp

Kohli played a spectacular knock to help the team recover from the early losses.

AB de Villiers and skipper Virat Kohli together helped Bangalore register their fourth victory in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli played a spectacular knock to help the team recover from the early losses. He made 70 runs in just 40 balls which included seven fours and three sixes. Supported by AB de Villiers at the other end, the two established 100-run partnership. While Kohli lost his wicket, de Villiers continued his attack and single-handedly took the team to victory side. De Villiers, who remained unbeaten, made 72 runs in just 37 balls. he slammed four boundaries and six huge sixes. Bangalore had a poor start after they lost openers, Parthiv Patel and Moeen Ali, cheaply, while chasing a target of 182 runs set by Delhi on Saturday. For Delhi, Rishabh Pant continued his destructive form with a 34-ball 61 runs. Abhishek Sharma, who hammered an unbeaten 46 off 19 balls, was one of three IPL debutants for Delhi today along-side Nepal leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane and South African pacer Junior Dala. Virat Kohli had won the toss and invited the hosts to bat, playing first, Delhi put up a decent target of 182 runs. Openers Prithvi Shaw and Jason Roy did not perform and failed to give the necessary start to the team after they lost their wickets to spinner Yuzvendra Chahal after scoring 2 and 12 runs respectively. Skipper Shreyas Iyer too smashed 32 runs in 35 balls. Pant raced to his fourth fifty of the season off 27 balls and was poised for another big inning. The other set batsman, Iyer, too departed soon after Pant's fall, hurting the innings momentum to leave Delhi at 120 four in 15.1 overs.

IPL 2018: Kohli, de Villiers star in much-needed win for Bangalore

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore take on MS Dhoni-led Chennai at the second home ground of the "Yellow Brigade" on Saturday, May 5.

The clash is going to be one of the most intriguing clashes of the tournament at a crucial juncture when the race to playoffs is about to end.

In previous few clashes, the star batsman of Bangalore, AB de Villiers struggled with health issues but now he has been declared fit for tonight's clash which is against Chennai.

The head coach of Bangalore, Daniel Vettori said that AB de Villiers has fully recovered from a viral fever.

On the other hand, opener batsmen Quinton de Kock has flown back home due to some personal reasons, in the absence of wicket-keeper, the best replacement for team Bangalore is Parthiv Patel.

De Villiers struggled with health issues but now has been declared fit for the game against the Yellow Brigade

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore take on MS Dhoni-led Chennai at the second home ground of the "Yellow Brigade" on Saturday, May 5. The clash is going to be one of the most intriguing clashes of the tournament at a crucial juncture when the race to playoffs is about to end. In previous few clashes, the star batsman of Bangalore, AB de Villiers struggled with health issues but now he has been declared fit for tonight's clash which is against Chennai. The head coach of Bangalore, Daniel Vettori said that AB de Villiers has fully recovered from a viral fever. On the other hand, opener batsmen Quinton de Kock has flown back home due to some personal reasons, in the absence of wicket-keeper, the best replacement for team Bangalore is Parthiv Patel.

AB de Villiers fit to play, de Kock to miss clash against Chennai

Bangalore faces Mumbai for the second time in this year's IPL at the M Chinnaswamy stadium on Tuesday.

Both the teams have not had a decent start this year, but are playing every single card to bring their campaign back on track.&nbsp;

But, Bangalore have suffered a huge blow after AB de Villiers fell sick and was out for the two games.&nbsp;

He was replaced by Manan Vohra, who failed to perform in the first match. He was sent back to the pavilion without opening his account.

But things were not same in today's clash against Mumbai.

Vohra opened for Bangalore and played a blistering knock to give his team an upper hand against Mumbai.

In 31 balls, Vohra made 45 runs which included two fours and fours sixes.

He was supported by Quinton de Kock, who failed to leave any mark in today's game.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl at Chinnaswamy Stadium on Tuesday. He has taken the decision to take the advantage of the pitch as it is very dry and has a lot of cracks which supports the bowlers.

For Mumbai, Ewin Lewis is not playing as he has injured his wrist and Kieron Pollard has been included in the squad for tonight's match. 
&nbsp;

Bangalore faces Mumbai for the second time in this year's IPL at the M Chinnaswamy stadium on Tuesday. Both the teams have not had a decent start this year, but are playing every single card to bring their campaign back on track. But, Bangalore have suffered a huge blow after AB de Villiers fell sick and was out for the two games. He was replaced by Manan Vohra, who failed to perform in the first match. He was sent back to the pavilion without opening his account. But things were not same in today's clash against Mumbai. Vohra opened for Bangalore and played a blistering knock to give his team an upper hand against Mumbai. In 31 balls, Vohra made 45 runs which included two fours and fours sixes. He was supported by Quinton de Kock, who failed to leave any mark in today's game. Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl at Chinnaswamy Stadium on Tuesday. He has taken the decision to take the advantage of the pitch as it is very dry and has a lot of cracks which supports the bowlers. For Mumbai, Ewin Lewis is not playing as he has injured his wrist and Kieron Pollard has been included in the squad for tonight's match.

IPL 2018: De Villiers's replacement Manan Vohra proves worth, gives brisk start to Bangalore

South African batsman AB de Villiers is one batsman who is impossible to stop from scoring when in form. There is no bowling attack which cannot be hampered when he is on strike.

However, there is one player who knows how to stop De Villiers from hitting big sixes. And that player is none other than Ben Stokes.

Stokes got really impressed by De Villiers yesterday's innings when he enthralled the crowd with an unbeaten 39-ball 90 to guide Virat-Kohli-led team Bangalore to a convincing six-wicket win over Delhi in their Indian Premier League (IPL) match at the M Chinnaswamy stadium on Sunday.&nbsp

The England all-rounder Took to his Twitter handle to reveal how a bowler can stop de Villiers from making a high score.

"How to stop @ABdeVilliers17," Stokes' tweet read.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
How to stop <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a> <a href="https://t.co/DivGdgh36Q">pic.twitter.com/DivGdgh36Q</a>
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/987749945171107840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Rajasthan all-rounder recalled one of the most infamous moments in cricket history, where Australia's Trevor Chappell bowled an under-arm delivery to New Zealand's Brian McKechnie.&nbsp

New Zealand needed six runs off just one ball to win the match and Chappell bowled an under-arm delivery to stop the Australian from hitting a six.

Meanwhile, His innings in yesterday's match against Delhi rained fours and sixes as he singled-handedly chased down the 175-run target with two overs to spare to bring Bangalore's campaign back on track.&nbsp

He smashed 10 fours and five sixes in his unbeaten innings.&nbsp

De Villiers is currently fifth in the most runs chart with 212 runs under his belt in the tournament so far.

Stokes revealed the idea on his Twitter handle

South African batsman AB de Villiers is one batsman who is impossible to stop from scoring when in form. There is no bowling attack which cannot be hampered when he is on strike. However, there is one player who knows how to stop De Villiers from hitting big sixes. And that player is none other than Ben Stokes. Stokes got really impressed by De Villiers yesterday's innings when he enthralled the crowd with an unbeaten 39-ball 90 to guide Virat-Kohli-led team Bangalore to a convincing six-wicket win over Delhi in their Indian Premier League (IPL) match at the M Chinnaswamy stadium on Sunday. The England all-rounder Took to his Twitter handle to reveal how a bowler can stop de Villiers from making a high score. "How to stop @ABdeVilliers17," Stokes' tweet read. How to stop @ABdeVilliers17 pic.twitter.com/DivGdgh36Q — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) April 21, 2018 × The Rajasthan all-rounder recalled one of the most infamous moments in cricket history, where Australia's Trevor Chappell bowled an under-arm delivery to New Zealand's Brian McKechnie. New Zealand needed six runs off just one ball to win the match and Chappell bowled an under-arm delivery to stop the Australian from hitting a six. Meanwhile, His innings in yesterday's match against Delhi rained fours and sixes as he singled-handedly chased down the 175-run target with two overs to spare to bring Bangalore's campaign back on track. He smashed 10 fours and five sixes in his unbeaten innings. De Villiers is currently fifth in the most runs chart with 212 runs under his belt in the tournament so far.

IPL 2018: How to stop AB De Villiers from scoring, reveals Ben Stokes

The most star-studded franchise of all seasons, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), this time will look to win the IPL title and break the jinx of losing despite having the top players of the world in previous seasons, can say universe!

RCB believed in decking up power hitters, this time also they have pooled in Brendon McCullum, Quinton de Kock, all-rounders like Chris Woakes, Colin de Grandhomme and Corey Anderson.

Wonder kid of IPL, Sarfraz Khan has already impressed the spectators by his batting capabilities, though he needs to shed some pounds to prove himself as a fielder.

Before entering the auction RCB had retained Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Sarfraz Khan.

They had legendary Chris Gayle but for some unknown reason, he was snubbed during the auctions. RCB had to take such strict decision as they have been compromising with the variety of seamers and suffered when it comes to defend a mammoth total, so they had to make adjustments to prevail over the problem.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb">
Just can't get enough of the man, can we? ? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KingInTheNets?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KingInTheNets</a> <a href="https://t.co/fsaRil21yz">pic.twitter.com/fsaRil21yz</a>
— Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/980311127434215425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">1 April 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Now, they have experienced pacers like Umesh Yadav, Mandeep Singh, Tim Southee, Mohammad Siraj and the spin department will be powered by Yuzvendra Chahal, Moeen Ali and Washington Sundar.

Bowling department is very balanced with different variety but the bench is very weak as IPL deals with injuries and if any bowlers fall through then chances of replacement are very less.

The batting department looks very settled, with the arrival of Brendon McCullum, resolving the opener problem.

McCullum will open with South African star AB de Villiers and at number three skipper Virat is in-charge.

Chris Woakes or Colin de Grandhomme at number four and Quinton de Kock at number five.&nbsp

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb">
Practice done right in the glorious Chinnaswamy ?️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://t.co/k1uF61ehY3">pic.twitter.com/k1uF61ehY3</a>
— Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/979722130886574080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">30 March 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Manan Vohra has played some magnificent knocks for Kings XI Punjab in the previous season, he can provide required support if given chance to play.

They have an option of two wicketkeepers, Quinton de Kock and Parthiv Patel with the restriction of using overseas players the choice of buying two renowned glovesmen is good.

When it comes to investment, &nbspKulwant Khejroliya and Navdeep Saini, who have displayed stellar performance in the domestic tournament are capable of fulfilling adequate roles as a batsman.

Virat-led RCB boys have the best chance to win and salvage the Bangalorean pride and sing together the famous cricket song, Mauka Mauka, Mauka Mauka...

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lVPb9swYpak" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Here is the squad list:

Retained: 
Virat Kohli (17 cr) 
AB de Villiers (11 cr) 
Sarfraz Khan (3 cr)

Purchased: 
Brendon McCullum (3.6 cr), Chris Woakes (7.4 cr), Colin de Grandhomme (2.2 cr), Moeen Ali (1.7 cr), Quinton de Kock (2.8 cr), Umesh Yadav (4.2 cr), Yuzvendra Chahal (6 cr), Manan Vohra (1.1 cr), Kulwant Kejroliya (85 L), Aniket Choudhary (30 L), Navdeep Saini (3 cr), Murugan Ashwin (2.2 cr), Mandeep Singh (1.4 cr), Washington Sundar (3.2 cr), Pawan Negi (1 cr), Mohammad Siraj (2.6 cr), Nathan Coulter-Nile (2.2 cr), Anirudha Joshi (20L), Parthiv Patel (1.7 cr), Tim Southee (1 cr), Pavan Deshpande (20 L)

The most star-studded franchise of all seasons, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), this time will look to win the IPL title and break the jinx of losing despite having the top players of the world in previous seasons

The most star-studded franchise of all seasons, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), this time will look to win the IPL title and break the jinx of losing despite having the top players of the world in previous seasons, can say universe! RCB believed in decking up power hitters, this time also they have pooled in Brendon McCullum, Quinton de Kock, all-rounders like Chris Woakes, Colin de Grandhomme and Corey Anderson. Wonder kid of IPL, Sarfraz Khan has already impressed the spectators by his batting capabilities, though he needs to shed some pounds to prove himself as a fielder. Before entering the auction RCB had retained Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Sarfraz Khan. They had legendary Chris Gayle but for some unknown reason, he was snubbed during the auctions. RCB had to take such strict decision as they have been compromising with the variety of seamers and suffered when it comes to defend a mammoth total, so they had to make adjustments to prevail over the problem. Just can't get enough of the man, can we? ? #PlayBold #KingInTheNets pic.twitter.com/fsaRil21yz — Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) 1 April 2018 × Now, they have experienced pacers like Umesh Yadav, Mandeep Singh, Tim Southee, Mohammad Siraj and the spin department will be powered by Yuzvendra Chahal, Moeen Ali and Washington Sundar. Bowling department is very balanced with different variety but the bench is very weak as IPL deals with injuries and if any bowlers fall through then chances of replacement are very less. The batting department looks very settled, with the arrival of Brendon McCullum, resolving the opener problem. McCullum will open with South African star AB de Villiers and at number three skipper Virat is in-charge. Chris Woakes or Colin de Grandhomme at number four and Quinton de Kock at number five. Practice done right in the glorious Chinnaswamy ?️ #PlayBold pic.twitter.com/k1uF61ehY3 — Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) 30 March 2018 × Manan Vohra has played some magnificent knocks for Kings XI Punjab in the previous season, he can provide required support if given chance to play. They have an option of two wicketkeepers, Quinton de Kock and Parthiv Patel with the restriction of using overseas players the choice of buying two renowned glovesmen is good. When it comes to investment, &nbspKulwant Khejroliya and Navdeep Saini, who have displayed stellar performance in the domestic tournament are capable of fulfilling adequate roles as a batsman. Virat-led RCB boys have the best chance to win and salvage the Bangalorean pride and sing together the famous cricket song, Mauka Mauka, Mauka Mauka... × Here is the squad list: Retained: Virat Kohli (17 cr) AB de Villiers (11 cr) Sarfraz Khan (3 cr) Purchased: Brendon McCullum (3.6 cr), Chris Woakes (7.4 cr), Colin de Grandhomme (2.2 cr), Moeen Ali (1.7 cr), Quinton de Kock (2.8 cr), Umesh Yadav (4.2 cr), Yuzvendra Chahal (6 cr), Manan Vohra (1.1 cr), Kulwant Kejroliya (85 L), Aniket Choudhary (30 L), Navdeep Saini (3 cr), Murugan Ashwin (2.2 cr), Mandeep Singh (1.4 cr), Washington Sundar (3.2 cr), Pawan Negi (1 cr), Mohammad Siraj (2.6 cr), Nathan Coulter-Nile (2.2 cr), Anirudha Joshi (20L), Parthiv Patel (1.7 cr), Tim Southee (1 cr), Pavan Deshpande (20 L)

IPL 2018 squad analysis: RCB's strong batting line-up gives Virat 'mauka mauka' to end losing jinx

Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon has been charged 15 percent of his match fee for his cheeky celebration following the run out of South Africa batsman AB de Villiers by the International Cricket Council (ICC). He threw&nbsp;the ball at former South African skipper AB de Villiers which is declared as a breach of level one of its code of conduct as behaviour that was &quot;contrary to the spirit of the game&quot;. Nathan&nbsp;has had one demerit point added to his name. A total of four such demerit points will result in him missing a Test match.

Watch the video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
If I was an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australian</a> or part of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australiancricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australiancricket</a> team I would be <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ashamed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ashamed</a>. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/derro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#derro</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NathanLyon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NathanLyon</a> clearly throws the ball on AB and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DavidWarner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DavidWarner</a> acts like an absolute <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bogan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bogan</a> that he is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maniac?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maniac</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/badsportsmen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#badsportsmen</a> #disgrace# <a href="https://t.co/6Cb8LMGXGs">pic.twitter.com/6Cb8LMGXGs</a>
&mdash; Br@t (@Mc_Allstar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mc_Allstar/status/970698669900091392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

The incident occurred on the fourth day in the second innings of the first Test match at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban on Sunday. De Villiers was run out for nought after being involved in a mix-up with opening batsman Aiden Markram, with Lyon, who had knocked off the bails, dropping the ball towards the sprawled batsman as he ran over to join ecstatic celebrations.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Nathan Lyon has been fined after breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the first Test against South Africa. 
 
STORY ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/zUEzQQBIzH">https://t.co/zUEzQQBIzH</a> <a href="https://t.co/rV8SWOMKkm">pic.twitter.com/rV8SWOMKkm</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/970708948419571712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Australia won the first match of a four-Test series by 118 runs on Monday&nbsp;

The bowler was said to have apologised to De Villiers and the pair were seen shaking hands while the teams warmed up on Monday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
It didn&#39;t take too long for Australia to wrap up victory on day five of the first Test against South Africa.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> REPORT ➡️<a href="https://t.co/j4xPRt027s">https://t.co/j4xPRt027s</a> <a href="https://t.co/VbuB8q2eWd">pic.twitter.com/VbuB8q2eWd</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/970637552288854016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Nathan Lyon's behaviour has been declared as a breach of level one of ICC code of conduct as it was "contrary to the spirit of the game"

Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon has been charged 15 percent of his match fee for his cheeky celebration following the run out of South Africa batsman AB de Villiers by the International Cricket Council (ICC). He threw the ball at former South African skipper AB de Villiers which is declared as a breach of level one of its code of conduct as behaviour that was "contrary to the spirit of the game". Nathan has had one demerit point added to his name. A total of four such demerit points will result in him missing a Test match. Watch the video here: If I was an #Australian or part of the #Australiancricket team I would be #ashamed. The #derro #NathanLyon clearly throws the ball on AB and #DavidWarner acts like an absolute #bogan that he is #maniac #AUSvsSA #badsportsmen #disgrace# pic.twitter.com/6Cb8LMGXGs — Br@t (@Mc_Allstar) March 5, 2018 × The incident occurred on the fourth day in the second innings of the first Test match at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban on Sunday. De Villiers was run out for nought after being involved in a mix-up with opening batsman Aiden Markram, with Lyon, who had knocked off the bails, dropping the ball towards the sprawled batsman as he ran over to join ecstatic celebrations. Nathan Lyon has been fined after breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the first Test against South Africa. STORY ➡️ https://t.co/zUEzQQBIzH pic.twitter.com/rV8SWOMKkm — ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2018 × Australia won the first match of a four-Test series by 118 runs on Monday The bowler was said to have apologised to De Villiers and the pair were seen shaking hands while the teams warmed up on Monday. It didn't take too long for Australia to wrap up victory on day five of the first Test against South Africa.#SAvAUS REPORT ➡️https://t.co/j4xPRt027s pic.twitter.com/VbuB8q2eWd — ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2018 ×

Australian bowler Nathan Lyon fined for 'disrespecting' AB de Villiers

The fourth ODI between India and South Africa is set to start and &#39;Men in blue&#39; will face &#39;Men in pink&#39; at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg.

India is already leading the six-match series by 3-0 with and will enter the 4th ODI with a high.

The Spin-twins are doing exceptionally well for the team. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have been a key element for India&#39;s comfortable victories.

The depth in the batting order has provided India with extra convincing support.

Though opener Rohit Sharma is struggling to regain his form as he failed to score in the previous games.

In-form skipper Virat Kohli has been magnificent. He slammed two centuries in the previous three games and had inspired the team to much-needed victories.

On the other hand, South Africa, arguably dominant unit at home strived hard to perform but the injuries had overshadowed the team as AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out.

But now AB de Villiers is set to return in the 4th ODI that will definitely bolster South African prospects a bit.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-can-the-return-of-ab-de-villiers-turn-the-tide-for-south-africa-32395">Also read:&nbsp;Opinion: Can the return of AB de Villiers turn the tide for South Africa?</a>

The Proteas will play in the pink jersey as they have pledged to create awareness for breast cancer.

If we talk about the pink jersey, out of 5 ODI games South Africa&nbsp;have not lost a single game&nbsp;yet.

Especially AB de Villiers&rsquo;s record in pink ODIs is remarkable. In the five games, he has scored 450 runs at an average of 112.5.

If we talk about the weather, some showers are expected in the morning, but it won&#39;t hamper the game as the match is set to start at 4:30.

Squad (TBC):

India:

Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

South Africa:

Aiden Markram (capt), Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada/Lungi Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir.

&nbsp;

The fourth ODI between India and South Africa is set to start at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg, AB de Villiers will return to the team

The fourth ODI between India and South Africa is set to start and 'Men in blue' will face 'Men in pink' at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. India is already leading the six-match series by 3-0 with and will enter the 4th ODI with a high. The Spin-twins are doing exceptionally well for the team. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have been a key element for India's comfortable victories. The depth in the batting order has provided India with extra convincing support. Though opener Rohit Sharma is struggling to regain his form as he failed to score in the previous games. In-form skipper Virat Kohli has been magnificent. He slammed two centuries in the previous three games and had inspired the team to much-needed victories. On the other hand, South Africa, arguably dominant unit at home strived hard to perform but the injuries had overshadowed the team as AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out. But now AB de Villiers is set to return in the 4th ODI that will definitely bolster South African prospects a bit. Also read: Opinion: Can the return of AB de Villiers turn the tide for South Africa? The Proteas will play in the pink jersey as they have pledged to create awareness for breast cancer. If we talk about the pink jersey, out of 5 ODI games South Africa have not lost a single game yet. Especially AB de Villiers’s record in pink ODIs is remarkable. In the five games, he has scored 450 runs at an average of 112.5. If we talk about the weather, some showers are expected in the morning, but it won't hamper the game as the match is set to start at 4:30. Squad (TBC): India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah. South Africa: Aiden Markram (capt), Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada/Lungi Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir.

4th ODI: 'Men in blue' vs 'men in pink'

The scoreline is rather hard to believe at present. The visiting Indian side leading 3-0 in the six-match ODI series against an arguably dominant South African unit at home.

This was supposed to be the mother of all ODI battles. The clash between the No. 1 and No. 2 ODI sides in the world. The greatest heavyweights of the limited overs format having a go at each other and having an epic contest for the crowds to savour. That wasn&rsquo;t to be, however.&nbsp;

South Africa looks like a pale shadow of what they used to be once. Their batting has been shambolic and bowling has been wayward. And without the services of star batsmen like AB de Villiers and Faf Du Plessis, South Africa has simply not been able to maintain its standards.

Old issues against wrist spin have resurfaced and there has been a real lack of application from the players in fighting it out. This raises serious questions about the future of this South African ODI outfit and makes one wonder how well they are prepared for their &lsquo;Mission 2019&rsquo;.

As India take on South Africa in the fourth ODI at the Wanderers, the hosts would be hoping for a turnaround in their fortunes. The return of star batsman AB de Villiers after an injury layoff will certainly bolster their prospects a bit.

After all, he is their greatest match-winner and averages 100.85 from 11 matches at this ground. This is also a Pink ODI and the South Africans would be seen donning the pink jersey in an ODI match again. Ever since this tradition was started five years ago, South Africa has been undefeatable in pink.

They have played five ODIs in pink and have not lost a single game as yet. History, however, would be of little help if the hosts continue to play they have been over the last few days.&nbsp;

For India, despite their winning momentum, there are causes of concern. Rohit Sharma seems to have fallen into his inconsistency pattern again and the lower middle-order looks fragile. Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav have to do more so that the burden on Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan is reduced a bit.

India&rsquo;s bowlers, though, have been absolutely brilliant and Kohli would need them to continue in the same vein. The seamers have not allowed the batsmen to get away to rollicking starts and then the wrist spinners - Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav &ndash; have taken over.

The two have spun such a vicious web over the South African batsmen that they do not how to untangle themselves out of it. Perhaps with De Villiers coming back, they will finally have some relief.

There is no denying, however, that despite the return of AB de Villiers, India start as favourites in the fourth ODI. They have displayed a brand of aggressive and professional cricket and it will not be surprising if they go on to subdue South Africa again and get a series-clinching win here.

&nbsp;

Without the services of star batsmen like AB de Villiers, South Africa has not been able to maintain its standards and return of star batsman AB de Villiers will certainly bolster their prospects a bit

The scoreline is rather hard to believe at present. The visiting Indian side leading 3-0 in the six-match ODI series against an arguably dominant South African unit at home. This was supposed to be the mother of all ODI battles. The clash between the No. 1 and No. 2 ODI sides in the world. The greatest heavyweights of the limited overs format having a go at each other and having an epic contest for the crowds to savour. That wasn’t to be, however. South Africa looks like a pale shadow of what they used to be once. Their batting has been shambolic and bowling has been wayward. And without the services of star batsmen like AB de Villiers and Faf Du Plessis, South Africa has simply not been able to maintain its standards. Old issues against wrist spin have resurfaced and there has been a real lack of application from the players in fighting it out. This raises serious questions about the future of this South African ODI outfit and makes one wonder how well they are prepared for their ‘Mission 2019’. As India take on South Africa in the fourth ODI at the Wanderers, the hosts would be hoping for a turnaround in their fortunes. The return of star batsman AB de Villiers after an injury layoff will certainly bolster their prospects a bit. After all, he is their greatest match-winner and averages 100.85 from 11 matches at this ground. This is also a Pink ODI and the South Africans would be seen donning the pink jersey in an ODI match again. Ever since this tradition was started five years ago, South Africa has been undefeatable in pink. They have played five ODIs in pink and have not lost a single game as yet. History, however, would be of little help if the hosts continue to play they have been over the last few days. For India, despite their winning momentum, there are causes of concern. Rohit Sharma seems to have fallen into his inconsistency pattern again and the lower middle-order looks fragile. Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav have to do more so that the burden on Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan is reduced a bit. India’s bowlers, though, have been absolutely brilliant and Kohli would need them to continue in the same vein. The seamers have not allowed the batsmen to get away to rollicking starts and then the wrist spinners - Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav – have taken over. The two have spun such a vicious web over the South African batsmen that they do not how to untangle themselves out of it. Perhaps with De Villiers coming back, they will finally have some relief. There is no denying, however, that despite the return of AB de Villiers, India start as favourites in the fourth ODI. They have displayed a brand of aggressive and professional cricket and it will not be surprising if they go on to subdue South Africa again and get a series-clinching win here.

Opinion: Can the return of AB de Villiers turn the tide for South Africa?

The South African side has got some relief as their star batsman&nbsp;AB de Villiers will resume from the fourth ODI against India in a 6 match ODI series.

ABD missed the first three matches because of a finger injury suffered in the third Test against the same opponents last month.

The Proteas were struggling in the ODI series as their players were affected by injury. Although, they played exceptionally well against India in the Test match to win the series by 2-1. The momentum has been lost in the limited overs format.

AB de Villiers was absent from the 1st ODI match, Faf du Plessis ruled out after playing the 1st ODI match and out <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/another-injury-blow-to-south-africa-after-de-villiers-duplessis-now-de-kock-31890">Quinton de Kock</a> still recovering as he suffered a wrist injury in the 2nd ODI.

India had marked a comfortable win in the previous matches and have taken an unescapable lead 3-0 lead.

The squad, especially the bowling attack is in terrific form. South Africa&rsquo;s batsmen have struggled, particularly against India&rsquo;s spinners especially Kuldeep&nbsp;Yadav and Chahal.

India won the first ODI at Durban by six wickets, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-odi-india-romp-home-in-centurion-odi-by-9-wickets-lead-series-2-0-31746">second ODI by nine wickets</a> and third match won by a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/3rd-odi-india-beat-south-africa-by-124-runs-take-unassailable-3-0-lead-32149"> massive 124 runs.</a>

After winning the last match, India temporarily retained the top ICC ODI spot and looking forward to winning the ODI series after the unfortunate Test loss.

The return of De Villiers is the only change to a squad weakened by injuries to regular captain Faf du Plessis and wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock.

Squad (TBC):

South African:

Aiden Markram (captain), Hashim Amla, Farhaan Behardien, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Imran Tahir, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), David Miller, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Khaya Zondo.

&nbsp;

AB de Villiers returns to the South African squad for the last three one-day internationals against India, Cricket South Africa announced on Thursday

The South African side has got some relief as their star batsman AB de Villiers will resume from the fourth ODI against India in a 6 match ODI series. ABD missed the first three matches because of a finger injury suffered in the third Test against the same opponents last month. The Proteas were struggling in the ODI series as their players were affected by injury. Although, they played exceptionally well against India in the Test match to win the series by 2-1. The momentum has been lost in the limited overs format. AB de Villiers was absent from the 1st ODI match, Faf du Plessis ruled out after playing the 1st ODI match and out Quinton de Kock still recovering as he suffered a wrist injury in the 2nd ODI. India had marked a comfortable win in the previous matches and have taken an unescapable lead 3-0 lead. The squad, especially the bowling attack is in terrific form. South Africa’s batsmen have struggled, particularly against India’s spinners especially Kuldeep Yadav and Chahal. India won the first ODI at Durban by six wickets, the second ODI by nine wickets and third match won by a massive 124 runs. After winning the last match, India temporarily retained the top ICC ODI spot and looking forward to winning the ODI series after the unfortunate Test loss. The return of De Villiers is the only change to a squad weakened by injuries to regular captain Faf du Plessis and wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock. Squad (TBC): South African: Aiden Markram (captain), Hashim Amla, Farhaan Behardien, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Imran Tahir, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), David Miller, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Khaya Zondo.

AB de Villiers returns for the remaining three ODIs

It was Philander who ripped through Indian batting line up at Cape Town. Debutant Ngidi did a Philander&rsquo;s act at Centurion and tore apart Indian line up. No doubt both of them won the Test for their side.

&nbsp;

But there is one man who rather silently did the trick for his team in both Test matches; it was South African veteran AB de Villiers (let&rsquo;s call him ABD). If you critically look at both Test matches, interestingly, it was ABD who took control of the things right at the moment when they could have gone totally haywire for his side. His knocks at critical junctures have been the biggest success factor for South Africa. I am not undermining what Philander and Ngidi did but they excelled in favourable conditions and on the 4th innings of the Test, whereas, ABD performed when the opposition started playing really well.

&nbsp;

Those who do something against the run of a play are a truly special bloke and ABD did exactly that. Sports is all about momentum. In Cricket (or say any sports per se), if the opposition is gaining momentum and doesn&rsquo;t get controlled in time, then they would simply run away with the game.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Both in Cape Town and Centurion, when India was on the brink of gaining devastating momentum, it was ABD who stood against it and tamed the adverse situation.

&nbsp;

At Cape Town, in the first innings, South Africa was reeling against the pace bowling of Bhuvi and the score line was 12 for 3. At this moment, an early fourth wicket would have led to a total downfall, as was the case in 2006 when South Africa was bowled out by India for 84 at Johannesburg. But ABD with his counter-attack changed the narrative. Not only he scored a half-century, he nullified the Indian momentum.

&nbsp;

ABD continued his heroism at Centurion. When South Africa was 2 down for 3 runs in second innings against the spirited Bumrah, de Villiers came for the rescue. Not only he put Indian bowlers on the back foot, he ensured that South Africa scored enough runs on a difficult track.

&nbsp;

So, if India crumbled in both Tests after losing 2/3 early wickets and South Africa didn&rsquo;t, then it was de Villiers who brought that difference.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This is the sign of a true champion. You should have the ability to rise to the occasion. Being the senior most member of the team, ABD is bearing the responsibility.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The greatest trait of ABD is the way he molds his mindset as per the situation. When in the flow, he decimates bowlers in ODI and T-20.&nbsp; He can also score at the strike rate of 180 plus each time he goes out with his willow like Rohit Sharma. But then in this Test, unlike Rohit Sharma, he bats with controlled aggression and was in the right mindset&nbsp;

&nbsp;

ABD is much away from stardom. Once someone defined the greatest quality of Tendulkar; after 20 plus years in international cricket, Tendulkar would run between the wickets like a debutant runs to complete his first Test century. In 1987, after declaring his retirement and playing in the last Test innings, Gavaskar played the innings of his life at Bangalore on a hyper turning track, in his bid to save Test for his side. ABD is in this league only &ndash; no complacency and full dedication.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

I somehow find him like Kumar Sangakara of Sri Lanka &ndash; delivering value for his side when it is needed the most. On the other hand, we have few Test old Hardik Pandya. After a good knock at Cape Town, he showed a laidback attitude, and the way he threw his wicket at Centurion in the first innings is bizarre and deplorable.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

You become a superstar by virtue of your performance not by becoming a swagger on what have you done in the past, and ABD is the true epitome of this. ABD with his application and determination took the series away from Indians in a very subtle manner.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

ABD &ndash; South Africa is lucky to have someone like you. Every time you come on the crease, we can read from your body language that how far away you are from the torpor of complacency. We can see that eagerness in your eyes to deliver something special for your side.&nbsp; Hats off buddy.

&nbsp;

And lastly, apart from fixing their batting woes, will Shastri and Kohli plan something to counter ABD for the last Test to salvage some pride?&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

It was AB de Villiers who took control of the things right at the moment when they could have gone totally haywire for his side

It was Philander who ripped through Indian batting line up at Cape Town. Debutant Ngidi did a Philander’s act at Centurion and tore apart Indian line up. No doubt both of them won the Test for their side. But there is one man who rather silently did the trick for his team in both Test matches; it was South African veteran AB de Villiers (let’s call him ABD). If you critically look at both Test matches, interestingly, it was ABD who took control of the things right at the moment when they could have gone totally haywire for his side. His knocks at critical junctures have been the biggest success factor for South Africa. I am not undermining what Philander and Ngidi did but they excelled in favourable conditions and on the 4th innings of the Test, whereas, ABD performed when the opposition started playing really well. Those who do something against the run of a play are a truly special bloke and ABD did exactly that. Sports is all about momentum. In Cricket (or say any sports per se), if the opposition is gaining momentum and doesn’t get controlled in time, then they would simply run away with the game. Both in Cape Town and Centurion, when India was on the brink of gaining devastating momentum, it was ABD who stood against it and tamed the adverse situation. At Cape Town, in the first innings, South Africa was reeling against the pace bowling of Bhuvi and the score line was 12 for 3. At this moment, an early fourth wicket would have led to a total downfall, as was the case in 2006 when South Africa was bowled out by India for 84 at Johannesburg. But ABD with his counter-attack changed the narrative. Not only he scored a half-century, he nullified the Indian momentum. ABD continued his heroism at Centurion. When South Africa was 2 down for 3 runs in second innings against the spirited Bumrah, de Villiers came for the rescue. Not only he put Indian bowlers on the back foot, he ensured that South Africa scored enough runs on a difficult track. So, if India crumbled in both Tests after losing 2/3 early wickets and South Africa didn’t, then it was de Villiers who brought that difference. This is the sign of a true champion. You should have the ability to rise to the occasion. Being the senior most member of the team, ABD is bearing the responsibility. The greatest trait of ABD is the way he molds his mindset as per the situation. When in the flow, he decimates bowlers in ODI and T-20. He can also score at the strike rate of 180 plus each time he goes out with his willow like Rohit Sharma. But then in this Test, unlike Rohit Sharma, he bats with controlled aggression and was in the right mindset ABD is much away from stardom. Once someone defined the greatest quality of Tendulkar; after 20 plus years in international cricket, Tendulkar would run between the wickets like a debutant runs to complete his first Test century. In 1987, after declaring his retirement and playing in the last Test innings, Gavaskar played the innings of his life at Bangalore on a hyper turning track, in his bid to save Test for his side. ABD is in this league only – no complacency and full dedication. I somehow find him like Kumar Sangakara of Sri Lanka – delivering value for his side when it is needed the most. On the other hand, we have few Test old Hardik Pandya. After a good knock at Cape Town, he showed a laidback attitude, and the way he threw his wicket at Centurion in the first innings is bizarre and deplorable. You become a superstar by virtue of your performance not by becoming a swagger on what have you done in the past, and ABD is the true epitome of this. ABD with his application and determination took the series away from Indians in a very subtle manner. ABD – South Africa is lucky to have someone like you. Every time you come on the crease, we can read from your body language that how far away you are from the torpor of complacency. We can see that eagerness in your eyes to deliver something special for your side. Hats off buddy. And lastly, apart from fixing their batting woes, will Shastri and Kohli plan something to counter ABD for the last Test to salvage some pride? (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Who defeated India in Centurion Test? AB de Villiers

Seamer Mohammed Shami on Tuesday struck three times for his team to dismiss two set batsman AB de Villiers and Dean Elgar and one new batsman Quinton de Kock as the day 4 of the second Test match between India and South Africa resumed.&nbsp;

While de Villiers departed at 80 after being caught out by Parthiv Patel off Shami, Dean Elgar was also sent back to the pavilion at 61, trying to pull at the deep square leg.&nbsp;

KL Rahul took the catch to get Shami one more wicket.&nbsp;

Quinton de Kock was dismissed in de Villiers&#39;s manner at 12.

Skipper Faf du Plessis and Vernon Philander are two&nbsp;batsmen on the crease with South Africa&#39;s score standing at 173/5 at lunch.&nbsp;

Earlier on Day 3, Kohli hit a masterly 153 in India`s first innings of 307 to stay in touch in Centurion, even though South Africa stretched 28-run first innings lead to 118 by scoring 90 for two in their second spell at-bat on a storm-shortened afternoon.

He was the last man out when he was caught in the deep off Morne Morkel, hitting to one of eight fielders on the boundary as he tried to squeeze some extra runs with his tailenders having shown they were ill-equipped to handle fast bowlers wielding the second new ball.

AB de Villiers departed at 80 after being caught out by Parthiv Patel off Shami

Seamer Mohammed Shami on Tuesday struck three times for his team to dismiss two set batsman AB de Villiers and Dean Elgar and one new batsman Quinton de Kock as the day 4 of the second Test match between India and South Africa resumed. While de Villiers departed at 80 after being caught out by Parthiv Patel off Shami, Dean Elgar was also sent back to the pavilion at 61, trying to pull at the deep square leg. KL Rahul took the catch to get Shami one more wicket. Quinton de Kock was dismissed in de Villiers's manner at 12. Skipper Faf du Plessis and Vernon Philander are two batsmen on the crease with South Africa's score standing at 173/5 at lunch. Earlier on Day 3, Kohli hit a masterly 153 in India`s first innings of 307 to stay in touch in Centurion, even though South Africa stretched 28-run first innings lead to 118 by scoring 90 for two in their second spell at-bat on a storm-shortened afternoon. He was the last man out when he was caught in the deep off Morne Morkel, hitting to one of eight fielders on the boundary as he tried to squeeze some extra runs with his tailenders having shown they were ill-equipped to handle fast bowlers wielding the second new ball.

2nd Test: Shami takes three quick wickets on day 4, Proteas 173/5 at lunch

Ravichandran Ashwin struck twice for team India to get rid of both the openers, who played brilliantly to make South Africa have upper hand on the opening day of the second Test match at Centurion on Saturday.

Ashwin, first, dismissed Dean Elgar at 31 after a stupendous effort from Vijay at silly point to take that catch and later went to remove&nbsp;Aiden Markram at 94.

Markram was given caught behind and had to depart just 6 runs short of a century.&nbsp;

Apart from Ashwin, no bowler has been able to take any wicket in the match so far.

South Africa&#39;s score stands at 172/2 after 53 overs with Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers on crease.&nbsp;

The Proteas were 78 for no loss at lunch after openers Aiden Markram and Dean Elgar had put on a spirited show.

The hosts, who lead the three-match series 1-0, chose to bat after winning the toss.

&nbsp;For India, the team management replaced wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha and opener Shikhar Dhawan with Parthiv Patel and KL Rahul, after they failed to play along with the bouncers and seaming conditions. &nbsp;

Markram was given caught behind and had to depart just 6 runs short of a century.

Ravichandran Ashwin struck twice for team India to get rid of both the openers, who played brilliantly to make South Africa have upper hand on the opening day of the second Test match at Centurion on Saturday. Ashwin, first, dismissed Dean Elgar at 31 after a stupendous effort from Vijay at silly point to take that catch and later went to remove Aiden Markram at 94. Markram was given caught behind and had to depart just 6 runs short of a century. Apart from Ashwin, no bowler has been able to take any wicket in the match so far. South Africa's score stands at 172/2 after 53 overs with Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers on crease. The Proteas were 78 for no loss at lunch after openers Aiden Markram and Dean Elgar had put on a spirited show. The hosts, who lead the three-match series 1-0, chose to bat after winning the toss. For India, the team management replaced wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha and opener Shikhar Dhawan with Parthiv Patel and KL Rahul, after they failed to play along with the bouncers and seaming conditions.

Ashwin removes Aiden Markram for 94, South Africa 172/2 after 53 overs

The &quot;genius&quot; of AB de Villiers and a ferocious onslaught from South Africa&#39;s fast bowlers changed the course of the first day of the first Test against India at Newlands on Friday.

India started the day like the world champions they are according to the Test rankings, but their nearest challengers finished on top, with India staggering at 28 for three at the close -- losing skipper Virat Kohli for just five -- after bowling out the hosts for 286.

It was a remarkable turnaround after South Africa had been reduced to 12 for three by Bhuvneshwar Kumar inside the first half hour.

&quot;They are a quality bowling attack and at that stage, I was sitting there wondering how we were going to score a run,&quot; said South African batting coach Dale Benkenstein.

He didn&#39;t have to wonder for long.&nbsp;

Counter-attacking batting, led by aggressive half-centuries by De Villiers and captain Faf du Plessis, and some wayward bowling by India enabled South Africa to make a reasonable total on a lively pitch before the South African fast bowlers struck.

Benkenstein praised &quot;the class and genius of AB de Villiers and the tenacity of the captain&quot;.

De Villiers and Du Plessis put on 114 for the fourth wicket, with De Villiers in sparkling form as he hit 65 off 84 balls with 11 fours.&nbsp;

He showed intent from the start of his innings, hitting four fours off Kumar&#39;s fifth over.

&quot;That one over from AB changed the game,&quot; said Benkenstein. &quot;He made the bowlers worry about their lengths. That partnership got us back in the game and brought belief back in the change room.&quot;

Gave away runs

Kumar, who took wickets in each of his first three overs, finished with four for 87 and conceded more than four runs an over as did fellow seamers, new cap Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.&nbsp;

Only Mohammed Shami was economical, taking one for 47 in 16 overs.

&quot;We gave away 25 or 30 too many runs,&quot; said Kumar, who acknowledged the game-changing ability of De Villiers.&nbsp;

&quot;When AB bats you know you have to bowl well. In some overs, we gave away too many boundaries.&quot;

Kumar said India would have to bat well on Saturday but said he felt the match was evenly poised.

Benkenstein, though, said South Africa were &quot;very happy&quot; after their four-man pace attack was unleashed for the last 51 minutes of play.

Vernon Philander had Murali Vijay caught at gully and four balls later Dale Steyn, playing his first Test match in more than a year, caught Shikhar Dhawan off his own bowling when Dhawan&#39;s attempted pull steepled high into the air.

The biggest prize fell to Morne Morkel, who came on as first change and produced a sharply-lifting delivery which Indian captain Virat Kohli edged to wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock after making just five.

Du Plessis said batting first on a well-grassed pitch was a &quot;tricky decision&quot; and his side&#39;s start must have reinforced his misgivings.

Kumar gained appreciable movement off a well-grassed pitch to plunge the South African innings into deep trouble.

Dean Elgar, South Africa&#39;s leading batsman during 2017, edged the third ball of the match to be caught behind by Wriddhiman Saha for nought.&nbsp;

His opening partner, Aiden Markram, fell in Kumar&#39;s next over, leg before wicket for five, before Hashim Amla, on three, edged an attempted back foot drive and gave Saha a second catch.

Saha finished with five catches behind the stumps.

But the rest of the South African batting proved resilient. The De Villiers-Du Plessis partnership was followed by a sixth wicket stand of 60 off 54 balls from Quinton de Kock and Philander, and there were useful contributions from the tailenders.

&quot;Those runs down the order in tough conditions were vital,&quot; said Benkenstein.

The 'genius' of AB de Villiers and a ferocious onslaught from South Africa's fast bowlers changed the course of the first day of the first Test against India at Newlands on Friday

The "genius" of AB de Villiers and a ferocious onslaught from South Africa's fast bowlers changed the course of the first day of the first Test against India at Newlands on Friday. India started the day like the world champions they are according to the Test rankings, but their nearest challengers finished on top, with India staggering at 28 for three at the close -- losing skipper Virat Kohli for just five -- after bowling out the hosts for 286. It was a remarkable turnaround after South Africa had been reduced to 12 for three by Bhuvneshwar Kumar inside the first half hour. "They are a quality bowling attack and at that stage, I was sitting there wondering how we were going to score a run," said South African batting coach Dale Benkenstein. He didn't have to wonder for long. Counter-attacking batting, led by aggressive half-centuries by De Villiers and captain Faf du Plessis, and some wayward bowling by India enabled South Africa to make a reasonable total on a lively pitch before the South African fast bowlers struck. Benkenstein praised "the class and genius of AB de Villiers and the tenacity of the captain". De Villiers and Du Plessis put on 114 for the fourth wicket, with De Villiers in sparkling form as he hit 65 off 84 balls with 11 fours. He showed intent from the start of his innings, hitting four fours off Kumar's fifth over. "That one over from AB changed the game," said Benkenstein. "He made the bowlers worry about their lengths. That partnership got us back in the game and brought belief back in the change room." Gave away runs Kumar, who took wickets in each of his first three overs, finished with four for 87 and conceded more than four runs an over as did fellow seamers, new cap Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. Only Mohammed Shami was economical, taking one for 47 in 16 overs. "We gave away 25 or 30 too many runs," said Kumar, who acknowledged the game-changing ability of De Villiers. "When AB bats you know you have to bowl well. In some overs, we gave away too many boundaries." Kumar said India would have to bat well on Saturday but said he felt the match was evenly poised. Benkenstein, though, said South Africa were "very happy" after their four-man pace attack was unleashed for the last 51 minutes of play. Vernon Philander had Murali Vijay caught at gully and four balls later Dale Steyn, playing his first Test match in more than a year, caught Shikhar Dhawan off his own bowling when Dhawan's attempted pull steepled high into the air. The biggest prize fell to Morne Morkel, who came on as first change and produced a sharply-lifting delivery which Indian captain Virat Kohli edged to wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock after making just five. Du Plessis said batting first on a well-grassed pitch was a "tricky decision" and his side's start must have reinforced his misgivings. Kumar gained appreciable movement off a well-grassed pitch to plunge the South African innings into deep trouble. Dean Elgar, South Africa's leading batsman during 2017, edged the third ball of the match to be caught behind by Wriddhiman Saha for nought. His opening partner, Aiden Markram, fell in Kumar's next over, leg before wicket for five, before Hashim Amla, on three, edged an attempted back foot drive and gave Saha a second catch. Saha finished with five catches behind the stumps. But the rest of the South African batting proved resilient. The De Villiers-Du Plessis partnership was followed by a sixth wicket stand of 60 off 54 balls from Quinton de Kock and Philander, and there were useful contributions from the tailenders. "Those runs down the order in tough conditions were vital," said Benkenstein.

Cricket: South Africa hail 'genius' of De Villiers

India bowlers are going extra miles to prove their abilities even in adverse conditions. As the day goes on, the South African side is falling apart one by one.

It seemed that the shocker start did not hamper much the middle order batting of South Africa as AB de Villiers and captain Faf du Plessis looked comfortable with the bat even after the failure of the top order but Indian pacers hit soon.

When both the players were trying to give a rhythm then Jasprit Bumrah took&nbsp;AB de Villiers&#39; wicket. He&nbsp;contributed 65 runs of 84 for his team but could not stay longer on the pitch as stunning Bumrah got him with a full length&nbsp;around off stump delivery. ABD looked positive throughout his innings but the South African &#39;stars&#39;&nbsp;are not shining brightly in the first Test match.

Soon after that, in 35th over, Pandya got another important wicket. He took the skipper on a short ball and&nbsp;Saha caught it behind the stumps. A&nbsp;poor and unnecessary shot by Faf du Plessis made him walk to the pavilion after scoring 62 runs.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-india-bhuveneshwar-strikes-early-28618">India vs South Africa Live Updates: F du Plessis falls to Pandya, South Africa in trouble</a>

South Africa won the toss and elected&nbsp;to&nbsp;bat first in the first match of Freedom Series&nbsp;Trophy.&nbsp;As the pitch demanded, Virat Kohli attacked with four pacers Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar to tackle the Proteas.

India struck early as in-form&nbsp;Bhuvneshwar Kumar shattered&nbsp;the top batting order of South Africa.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
At Lunch on Day 1 of the 1st Test, South Africa are 107/3. 
 
UPDATES - <a href="https://t.co/XYC5wpnAmX">https://t.co/XYC5wpnAmX</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreedomSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreedomSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jcMetQ5vPK">pic.twitter.com/jcMetQ5vPK</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/949226866157674496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

India&#39;s gamble of playing with four fast bowlers paid off as&nbsp;Bhuvneshwar send the opening batsman Dean Elgar and Aiden Markram back to pavilion also he took the crucial&nbsp;wicket off&nbsp;Hashim Amla.

South Africa was reduced to 12/3 in the first few minutes of the game at Newlands, Cape Town.

&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah took?AB de Villiers' wicket whereas Pandya got captain's wicket

India bowlers are going extra miles to prove their abilities even in adverse conditions. As the day goes on, the South African side is falling apart one by one. It seemed that the shocker start did not hamper much the middle order batting of South Africa as AB de Villiers and captain Faf du Plessis looked comfortable with the bat even after the failure of the top order but Indian pacers hit soon. When both the players were trying to give a rhythm then Jasprit Bumrah took AB de Villiers' wicket. He contributed 65 runs of 84 for his team but could not stay longer on the pitch as stunning Bumrah got him with a full length around off stump delivery. ABD looked positive throughout his innings but the South African 'stars' are not shining brightly in the first Test match. Soon after that, in 35th over, Pandya got another important wicket. He took the skipper on a short ball and Saha caught it behind the stumps. A poor and unnecessary shot by Faf du Plessis made him walk to the pavilion after scoring 62 runs. India vs South Africa Live Updates: F du Plessis falls to Pandya, South Africa in trouble South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first in the first match of Freedom Series Trophy. As the pitch demanded, Virat Kohli attacked with four pacers Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar to tackle the Proteas. India struck early as in-form Bhuvneshwar Kumar shattered the top batting order of South Africa. At Lunch on Day 1 of the 1st Test, South Africa are 107/3. UPDATES - https://t.co/XYC5wpnAmX #FreedomSeries #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/jcMetQ5vPK — BCCI (@BCCI) January 5, 2018 × India's gamble of playing with four fast bowlers paid off as Bhuvneshwar send the opening batsman Dean Elgar and Aiden Markram back to pavilion also he took the crucial wicket off Hashim Amla. South Africa was reduced to 12/3 in the first few minutes of the game at Newlands, Cape Town.

1st Test: Indian pacers destroy South African batting order

Zimbabwe was bowled out twice on Wednesday as South Africa swept to an easy victory by an innings and 120 runs as the inaugural four-day test finished inside two days at St George&#39;s Park.

Zimbabwe was dismissed for 68 runs in their first innings and then 121 in their follow-on in reply to South Africa&#39;s 309-9 declared.

The one-off test ended inside five sessions as the gulf in ability between the two neighbours was cruelly exposed.

Morne Morkel was the destroyer-in-chief in Zimbabwe&#39;s first innings with figures of 5-21, as nightwatchman Kyle Jarvis top scored with 23 off 50 balls. Debutant Ryan Burl, who added 16, was the only other Zimbabwean batsman to get to double figures.

Zimbabwe, who are bottom of the 10-team test rankings, started the second day reeling on 30-4 after being put into bat for the last hour of the first day of the first day-night test played in South Africa and struggled with the pink ball in unfamiliar conditions.

They did show some resistance at the start of their second innings but once their first wicket fell on 51, when Chamu Chibhabha was caught behind, there followed a steady procession of batsmen to the crease as Keshav Maharaj took 5-59 and Andile Phehlukwayo returned figures of 3-13.

All Zimbabwe&#39;s second innings wickets fell in a single session between the tea and dinner break. Craig Ervine was their top second innings scorer with 23 runs.

South Africa won the toss and batted first on Tuesday with Aiden Markram scoring 125 and AB de Villiers 53 on his return to the test arena after a hiatus of almost two years.

The four-day test is the first since the International Cricket Council tweaked regulations to give some of the weaker nations a more sporting chance, in the wake of Afghanistan and Ireland being granted test status.

The one-off game against Zimbabwe was also supposed to provide the home team with preparation for their three-test series against top ranked side India, which begins next week.

But it was much more of a one-sided contest than originally expected and will have provided neither side with any meaningful experience.

Zimbabwe was bowled out twice on Wednesday as South Africa swept to an easy victory by an innings and 120 runs

Zimbabwe was bowled out twice on Wednesday as South Africa swept to an easy victory by an innings and 120 runs as the inaugural four-day test finished inside two days at St George's Park. Zimbabwe was dismissed for 68 runs in their first innings and then 121 in their follow-on in reply to South Africa's 309-9 declared. The one-off test ended inside five sessions as the gulf in ability between the two neighbours was cruelly exposed. Morne Morkel was the destroyer-in-chief in Zimbabwe's first innings with figures of 5-21, as nightwatchman Kyle Jarvis top scored with 23 off 50 balls. Debutant Ryan Burl, who added 16, was the only other Zimbabwean batsman to get to double figures. Zimbabwe, who are bottom of the 10-team test rankings, started the second day reeling on 30-4 after being put into bat for the last hour of the first day of the first day-night test played in South Africa and struggled with the pink ball in unfamiliar conditions. They did show some resistance at the start of their second innings but once their first wicket fell on 51, when Chamu Chibhabha was caught behind, there followed a steady procession of batsmen to the crease as Keshav Maharaj took 5-59 and Andile Phehlukwayo returned figures of 3-13. All Zimbabwe's second innings wickets fell in a single session between the tea and dinner break. Craig Ervine was their top second innings scorer with 23 runs. South Africa won the toss and batted first on Tuesday with Aiden Markram scoring 125 and AB de Villiers 53 on his return to the test arena after a hiatus of almost two years. The four-day test is the first since the International Cricket Council tweaked regulations to give some of the weaker nations a more sporting chance, in the wake of Afghanistan and Ireland being granted test status. The one-off game against Zimbabwe was also supposed to provide the home team with preparation for their three-test series against top ranked side India, which begins next week. But it was much more of a one-sided contest than originally expected and will have provided neither side with any meaningful experience.

South Africa beat Zimbabwe by an innings and 120 runs

South Africa&#39;s top trio AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander have made their long-awaited return to the Proteas Test squad.

The players were named in the 14-man squad for next week`s day-night, four-day Test match against Zimbabwe. &nbsp;

The match which will be played at the St. George&rsquo;s Park, Port Elizabeth, from December 26 to 29, serves as a warm-up for three home tests against India in January. &nbsp;

De Villiers&#39; played his last test against England in January 2016, after which he asked for time out from the long format of the game.&nbsp;

While Steyn was recovering from a serious shoulder injury suffered against Australia at Perth, a year ago.

Philander is also back in the squad after suffering an injury on tour to England in mid-year.

Captain Faf du Plessis, who is in the final stages of recovery from a shoulder operation, has also been named. 
&nbsp; 
Recently against Bangladesh, South Africa used six batsmen, two allrounders, two seamers and a spinner. 
&nbsp;

The players were named in the 14-man squad for next week`s Test match against Zimbabwe

South Africa's top trio AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander have made their long-awaited return to the Proteas Test squad. The players were named in the 14-man squad for next week`s day-night, four-day Test match against Zimbabwe. The match which will be played at the St. George’s Park, Port Elizabeth, from December 26 to 29, serves as a warm-up for three home tests against India in January. De Villiers' played his last test against England in January 2016, after which he asked for time out from the long format of the game. While Steyn was recovering from a serious shoulder injury suffered against Australia at Perth, a year ago. Philander is also back in the squad after suffering an injury on tour to England in mid-year. Captain Faf du Plessis, who is in the final stages of recovery from a shoulder operation, has also been named. Recently against Bangladesh, South Africa used six batsmen, two allrounders, two seamers and a spinner.

AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn back in South Africa Test squad

That Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma&#39;s wedding news took everyone by surprise is a known fact. The couple got married in Tuscany, Italy , earlier this week in the presence of very few freinds and family members. As soon as the news broke out, people in India went crazy gushing over their perfect photos. Wishes have been pouring in from all quarters- actors and sportstars alike.&nbsp;

Now a video of&nbsp;<a href="http://indianexpress.com/about/ab-de-villiers/">AB de Villiers</a>&nbsp;wishing the couple has surfaced on the internet. The South African cricketer, who is VIrat&#39;s RCB teammate admitted that he was surprised by the news and wished the couple the very best for their second innings. He even cheekily mentioned that the couple should have many kids.&nbsp;

&quot;Congratulations to Virat and Anushka for getting married. Took me by surprise. But I always knew who had a surprise up your sleeve. So, congrats to my good friend Virat, and Anushka. I know you guys are going to have a very happy life together and hopefully many kids to come,&rdquo; De Villiers said in a video.

<iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Aa2ghx-SorY" width="560"></iframe>

Virushka's wedding news took de Villiers by surprise.

That Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma's wedding news took everyone by surprise is a known fact. The couple got married in Tuscany, Italy , earlier this week in the presence of very few freinds and family members. As soon as the news broke out, people in India went crazy gushing over their perfect photos. Wishes have been pouring in from all quarters- actors and sportstars alike. Now a video of AB de Villiers wishing the couple has surfaced on the internet. The South African cricketer, who is VIrat's RCB teammate admitted that he was surprised by the news and wished the couple the very best for their second innings. He even cheekily mentioned that the couple should have many kids. "Congratulations to Virat and Anushka for getting married. Took me by surprise. But I always knew who had a surprise up your sleeve. So, congrats to my good friend Virat, and Anushka. I know you guys are going to have a very happy life together and hopefully many kids to come,” De Villiers said in a video.

Watch: Ab de Villiers has a message for his RCB teammate Virat Kohli, wife Anushka

South African hero AB de Villiers admitted to nerves and battling a fear of failure as he produced a record-setting innings that led to a colossal win over New Zealand on Saturday.

Only a &quot;deep, deep hunger to succeed,&quot; helped him overcome his emotions to lead his side to a 159-run win in the third one-day international in Wellington to go 2-1 up in the five-match series.

De Villiers&#39; 85 off 80 balls pulled South Africa out of a middle-order slump during a match-changing innings in which he became the fastest players to reach 9,000 ODI runs.

South Africa eventually reached 271 for eight in their 50 overs before Dwaine Pretorius and Andile Phehlukwayo led a bowling attack that rolled New Zealand for 112 in 32.2 overs.

&quot;I was nervous walking out especially when we started losing a few wickets. Looking up at the scoreboard I thought &#39;oh my word we&#39;re looking at 160-180 if we get bowled out&#39; which I don&#39;t think would have been enough,&quot; he said.

&quot;There are lots of doubts walking out no matter what your record is.

&quot;But I had a feeling it was going to be important to bat through and to be there at the end.&quot;

As South Africa produced an emphatic response after losing to New Zealand in the second match on Wednesday, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was left to wonder how his side could be outsmarted in home conditions.

&quot;They certainly deserved the win, they outplayed us,&quot; he said.

&quot;They were able to get a bit of seam movement. Not only do you get a bit of assistance but you do have to put the ball in the right area and they were able to do that. They bowled very well.&quot;

South Africa were keen to bat first when they won the toss and while they had their jitters de Villiers had support from Quinton de Kock (68) to give their innings some respectability.

New Zealand&#39;s reply started disastrously with openers Tom Latham (nought) and Dean Brownlie (two) gone inside three overs.

Kane Williamson, on four, should have joined them but Hashim Amla failed to grasp a regulation catch at first slip.&nbsp;

It was a short-lived reprieve, however, as Williamson struggled to 23 when he was bowled by Phehlukwayo and Ross Taylor (18) went lbw to Pretorius in the following over.

Colin de Grandhomme&#39;s unbeaten 34 and Jimmy Neesham&#39;s 13 where the only other scores in double figures as Pretorius took three for five off 32 deliveries and Phehlukwayo finished with two for 12 off 30 balls.

De Villiers milestone&nbsp;

On a wicket that looked full of runs, South African opener Amla was unable to settle and went early for seven.&nbsp;

But de Kock had no problems as he posted his fifth successive half century following innings of 55 and 109 against Sri Lanka and then 69 and 57 in the first two matches of this five-game series.

His 68 in Wellington came off 70 deliveries and included two sixes and six fours.&nbsp;

Faf du Plessis offered some support with 36 but otherwise there was little resistance until de Villiers set up the big finish supported by Wayne Parnell who added 35 at the tail.&nbsp;

When de Villiers clouted Lockie Ferguson to the boundary off the fifth ball he faced he became the fastest batsman to total 9,000 ODI runs reaching the milestone in his 205th innings.&nbsp;

The previous record was 228 held by India&#39;s Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

Of the 18 batsmen in the 9,000-plus club, de Villiers also has the best average of 54.04 and best strike rate of 100.00.&nbsp;

(AFP)

South Africa skipper AB de Villiers' revitalised hunger helped his team clinch a 2-1 edge in the ODI series Down Under

South African hero AB de Villiers admitted to nerves and battling a fear of failure as he produced a record-setting innings that led to a colossal win over New Zealand on Saturday. Only a "deep, deep hunger to succeed," helped him overcome his emotions to lead his side to a 159-run win in the third one-day international in Wellington to go 2-1 up in the five-match series. De Villiers' 85 off 80 balls pulled South Africa out of a middle-order slump during a match-changing innings in which he became the fastest players to reach 9,000 ODI runs. South Africa eventually reached 271 for eight in their 50 overs before Dwaine Pretorius and Andile Phehlukwayo led a bowling attack that rolled New Zealand for 112 in 32.2 overs. "I was nervous walking out especially when we started losing a few wickets. Looking up at the scoreboard I thought 'oh my word we're looking at 160-180 if we get bowled out' which I don't think would have been enough," he said. "There are lots of doubts walking out no matter what your record is. "But I had a feeling it was going to be important to bat through and to be there at the end." As South Africa produced an emphatic response after losing to New Zealand in the second match on Wednesday, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was left to wonder how his side could be outsmarted in home conditions. "They certainly deserved the win, they outplayed us," he said. "They were able to get a bit of seam movement. Not only do you get a bit of assistance but you do have to put the ball in the right area and they were able to do that. They bowled very well." South Africa were keen to bat first when they won the toss and while they had their jitters de Villiers had support from Quinton de Kock (68) to give their innings some respectability. New Zealand's reply started disastrously with openers Tom Latham (nought) and Dean Brownlie (two) gone inside three overs. Kane Williamson, on four, should have joined them but Hashim Amla failed to grasp a regulation catch at first slip. It was a short-lived reprieve, however, as Williamson struggled to 23 when he was bowled by Phehlukwayo and Ross Taylor (18) went lbw to Pretorius in the following over. Colin de Grandhomme's unbeaten 34 and Jimmy Neesham's 13 where the only other scores in double figures as Pretorius took three for five off 32 deliveries and Phehlukwayo finished with two for 12 off 30 balls. De Villiers milestone On a wicket that looked full of runs, South African opener Amla was unable to settle and went early for seven. But de Kock had no problems as he posted his fifth successive half century following innings of 55 and 109 against Sri Lanka and then 69 and 57 in the first two matches of this five-game series. His 68 in Wellington came off 70 deliveries and included two sixes and six fours. Faf du Plessis offered some support with 36 but otherwise there was little resistance until de Villiers set up the big finish supported by Wayne Parnell who added 35 at the tail. When de Villiers clouted Lockie Ferguson to the boundary off the fifth ball he faced he became the fastest batsman to total 9,000 ODI runs reaching the milestone in his 205th innings. The previous record was 228 held by India's Sourav Ganguly. Of the 18 batsmen in the 9,000-plus club, de Villiers also has the best average of 54.04 and best strike rate of 100.00. (AFP)

De Villiers-led Proteas make short work of New Zealand

South African batting star AB&nbsp;de&nbsp;Villiers&rsquo; absence from Test cricket will extend until late this year after he told journalists on Wednesday that he will miss the series against England and Bangladesh.

He had already announced at a one-day series launch on Tuesday that he had decided not to make himself available for a Test series in New Zealand in March.

De&nbsp;Villiers&nbsp;did not take questions on Tuesday but held a press conference on Wednesday where he said his absence from Test cricket would extend to a four-Test series in England during the South African winter as well as two matches against Bangladesh in September and October.

The South African one-day captain will continue to be available for one-day internationals during this period as he concentrates on his goal of leading South Africa at the 2019 World Cup in England.

De&nbsp;Villiers, who turns 33 next month, said he planned to return to Test cricket for home series against India and Australia at the end of 2017, going into 2018.

&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t expect to just walk back into the Test side,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I am prepared to make my comeback with the Titans (his South African franchise) and make a contribution for them and prove that I am good enough.&rdquo;

De&nbsp;Villiers, who became a father in 2015 and whose wife is expecting a second child, said his life priorities had changed.&nbsp;

&ldquo;It is definitely not the end of the story but I need time to get myself ready for the Tests at the end of the year.&rdquo;

De&nbsp;Villiers&nbsp;said he was looking forward to captaining South Africa in a one-day series against Sri Lanka starting next week but said he felt nervous after more than six months out of the game.&nbsp;

&ldquo;I am always nervous before a series but after a long lay-off like this I want to prove that I can still play. I am very motivated to do well.&rdquo;

Although he is cutting back from his Test appearances,&nbsp;De&nbsp;Villiers&nbsp;will continue to play in the lucrative Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

&ldquo;It has almost become part of the ICC (International Cricket Council) schedule but I won&rsquo;t commit to any of the other Twenty20 tournaments like the Caribbean Premier League or the (Australian) Big Bash.&rdquo;&nbsp;

He indicated that he and other South African team players might return from the IPL early in order to prepare for the Champions Trophy in England in June.

De&nbsp;Villiers&nbsp;said he felt almost fully recovered from the elbow injury which has prevented him from playing since July.&nbsp;

&ldquo;I had surgery three months ago so I am still aware of it. I can play all of my shots but there are one or two shots that I feel more than others.&rdquo;

(AFP)

The batsman, who has not played in whites since January 2016, is expected to return for the home series against India and Australia

South African batting star AB de Villiers’ absence from Test cricket will extend until late this year after he told journalists on Wednesday that he will miss the series against England and Bangladesh. He had already announced at a one-day series launch on Tuesday that he had decided not to make himself available for a Test series in New Zealand in March. De Villiers did not take questions on Tuesday but held a press conference on Wednesday where he said his absence from Test cricket would extend to a four-Test series in England during the South African winter as well as two matches against Bangladesh in September and October. The South African one-day captain will continue to be available for one-day internationals during this period as he concentrates on his goal of leading South Africa at the 2019 World Cup in England. De Villiers, who turns 33 next month, said he planned to return to Test cricket for home series against India and Australia at the end of 2017, going into 2018. “I don’t expect to just walk back into the Test side,” he said. “I am prepared to make my comeback with the Titans (his South African franchise) and make a contribution for them and prove that I am good enough.” De Villiers, who became a father in 2015 and whose wife is expecting a second child, said his life priorities had changed. “It is definitely not the end of the story but I need time to get myself ready for the Tests at the end of the year.” De Villiers said he was looking forward to captaining South Africa in a one-day series against Sri Lanka starting next week but said he felt nervous after more than six months out of the game. “I am always nervous before a series but after a long lay-off like this I want to prove that I can still play. I am very motivated to do well.” Although he is cutting back from his Test appearances, De Villiers will continue to play in the lucrative Indian Premier League. “It has almost become part of the ICC (International Cricket Council) schedule but I won’t commit to any of the other Twenty20 tournaments like the Caribbean Premier League or the (Australian) Big Bash.” He indicated that he and other South African team players might return from the IPL early in order to prepare for the Champions Trophy in England in June. De Villiers said he felt almost fully recovered from the elbow injury which has prevented him from playing since July. “I had surgery three months ago so I am still aware of it. I can play all of my shots but there are one or two shots that I feel more than others.” (AFP)

South Africa's batting totem AB De Villiers to skip England series

ab-de-villiers

Ab De Villiers, News on Ab De Villiers, stories on Ab De Villiers, articles on Ab De Villiers, Ab De Villiers stories at Wion, Ab De Villiers news, Ab De Villiers latest news

ab de-villiers