AB de Villiers joins Pakistan Super League for fourth edition

Former South Africa wicketkeeper-batsman has a vast experience of more than 250 T20 matches

Former South Africa wicketkeeper-batsman AB de Villiers has agreed to join Pakistan Super League (PSL) for the fourth edition in 2019.

De Villiers – who is known for his explosive batting — did not feature in the first three editions of PSL but has now been successfully roped in by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the upcoming season.

The flamboyant South African has a vast experience of more than 250 T20 matches – which includes appearances in, both, international and domestic T20 leagues — where he has averaged 35.36 with a strike rate close to 148. He is currently one shy of hitting 300 sixes in T20 cricket as his tally currently stands at 299 maximums.

Over the course of his illustrious career, he broke numerous records which include the fastest century in ODI cricket off just 31 balls against West Indies in January 2015.

BREAKING: The GOAT from South Africa is now a part of PSL! A warm welcome to @abdevilliers17
#ABaurPSL pic.twitter.com/0oiSjPSEOZ

— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) September 7, 2018

“Pakistan Super League has grown into one of the top T20 tournaments in the world and I’ve really enjoyed watching PSL matches in recent years,” said de Villiers in a video message announcing his signing with PSL.

A supremely athletic fielder and a batsman who can play shots in all possible directions, de Villiers will be one of the star attractions at this year’s PSL Player Draft.

In his video message, the former South African captain also thanked Pakistani cricket fans for their support.

“PSL is a league that has given Pakistan so much to cheer about and I look forward to being on the field once again,” he said.

Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ehsan Mani was delighted on this latest signing and has welcomed AB de Villiers to PSL.

“We are delighted with the signing of de Villiers for Pakistan Super League,” said Mani. “He is a modern-day great and he will add immense value to the tournament. His involvement in PSL will also provide great learning opportunities for our youngsters."

The 34-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman retired from all forms of cricket in May 2018, citing ‘tiredness’ as a major factor behind his decision.

"I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect," he said in a video posted on his official app. "After 114 Test matches, 228 ODIs 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.”

The fourth edition of the PSL is expected to take place between February and March 2019.