A Shocking Take on AB de Villiers’ IPL Journey
Former Indian cricketer-turned-expert Sanjay Manjrekar recently stirred up the cricketing world with his claim that legendary South African batter AB de Villiers played for the “wrong franchise” during his IPL career. Manjrekar shared his thoughts on a Star Sports show, sparking debate among fans and experts alike.
AB de Villiers: A Stellar Yet Titleless IPL Career
AB de Villiers, known for his dynamic and explosive batting, made his IPL debut in 2008 with Delhi Capitals (then Delhi Daredevils). After three seasons, he was bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL 2011 mega auction. Over 11 seasons with RCB, de Villiers cemented his place as one of the greatest IPL players, scoring 5162 runs in 184 matches. Despite his brilliance, an IPL trophy eluded him, with RCB finishing as runners-up in 2011 and 2016.
Manjrekar: “AB Was Not Used Properly in IPL”
Manjrekar pointed out that de Villiers’ true potential was not fully utilized during his IPL stint. He believes that the South African maestro should have batted higher up the order to maximize his impact. According to Manjrekar, “AB’s greatness was his consistency across formats, averaging 50 in Tests and ODIs. But in IPL, he wasn’t used to his full potential. If he played elsewhere, we could’ve seen even greater performances.”
AB’s Contributions to RCB’s Legacy
AB de Villiers remains RCB’s second-highest run-scorer, amassing 4491 runs in 156 matches for the Bengaluru-based franchise. During his time with RCB, he delivered two centuries and 37 fifties, often mesmerizing fans with his “360-degree” shots and incredible match-winning abilities. Despite these remarkable performances, RCB’s trophy drought persisted.
Suryakumar Yadav vs. AB de Villiers: A Comparison
When asked if Suryakumar Yadav has surpassed de Villiers as “Mr. 360,” Manjrekar leaned towards Suryakumar, citing his match-winning impact in T20s. “AB was incredible,” he said, “but Suryakumar’s impact in T20 cricket puts him ahead.” This statement added another layer to the debate on AB’s IPL legacy and his franchise choices.
Could a Different Franchise Have Changed AB’s Fate?
Manjrekar’s assertion raises an intriguing question: would AB de Villiers have achieved even greater heights in the IPL with a different team? With his unparalleled skills, some fans believe that playing for a more balanced franchise could have helped him lift the elusive IPL trophy.
A Legend Beyond Titles
Despite missing out on an IPL title, AB de Villiers remains a legend of the game. His ability to innovate and dominate across formats ensures his legacy is secure. Whether or not he played for the “wrong franchise,” his impact on the IPL is undeniable.
De Villiers’ Legacy Lives On
While debates over AB de Villiers’ IPL career will continue, his brilliance as a cricketer remains undisputed. Fans will always remember the breathtaking moments he provided, making him one of the most beloved players in the history of the league.(online casino india)