WCL 2025: AB de Villiers Steals the Show as South Africa Champions Thrash India Champions by 88 Runs
In a high-octane clash of legends at the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, South Africa Champions delivered a dominating all-round performance to defeat India Champions by a massive margin of 88 runs (via the DLS method). The match, played at the historic County Ground in Northampton, turned out to be a one-sided affair, thanks to a vintage knock from none other than AB de Villiers, who rolled back the years with an explosive display of batting and fielding.
AB de Villiers Turns Back Time
It was an absolute masterclass from the former South African skipper. After being put into bat by India Champions captain Yuvraj Singh, AB de Villiers came in and smashed a breathtaking 63 runs off just 30 balls, filled with jaw-dropping strokes and powerful drives. His aggressive intent set the tone for the innings and helped South Africa post a mammoth total of 208/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Not just with the bat, de Villiers also impressed in the field, taking a sensational catch to dismiss Yusuf Pathan, showing the world once again why he is considered one of the most versatile cricketers of his era.
India’s Batting Collapse
India Champions, featuring big names like Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, and Yusuf Pathan, looked completely out of sync during their chase. They suffered an early collapse, losing six wickets within the first ten overs. Despite a brief attempt to stabilize the innings by Stuart Binny, the Indian side could only manage 111 runs for 9 wickets in 18.2 overs, before rain interrupted the match.
Captain Yuvraj Singh, unfortunately, could not come out to bat due to a niggle he suffered while fielding, further weakening the Indian lineup. The lack of resistance meant South Africa didn’t even need to rely on the full 20 overs to seal the win.
Match Summary
- Match: India Champions vs South Africa Champions
- Venue: County Ground, Northampton
- Tournament: World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025
- Result: South Africa Champions won by 88 runs (DLS method)
- Player of the Match: AB de Villiers – 63 (30 balls) + stunning catch
- South Africa Score: 208/6 (20 overs)
- India Score: 111/9 (18.2 overs)
Key Performances
- AB de Villiers: 63 off 30 balls & 1 brilliant catch
- Hardus Viljoen: Dismissed Shikhar Dhawan with a deadly yorker
- Wayne Parnell: 2 overs, 2 wickets, 0 runs – a dream spell
- Imran Tahir: Crucial wicket of Yusuf Pathan
- JJ Smuts & Duanne Olivier: Economical bowling to maintain pressure
India’s Struggles Highlighted
India Champions looked rusty, particularly in the bowling and fielding departments. Despite fielding a squad filled with seasoned players, the team lacked coordination and energy on the field. The bowling was average at best, and the body language throughout the game reflected the lack of match practice and competitive spirit.
Fielding errors, misjudged throws, and a lack of sharpness in running between the wickets further added to India’s woes. The intent to fight back seemed missing from the moment early wickets started falling.
South Africa’s Statement Win
South Africa Champions, on the other hand, executed their plans to perfection. They were sharp in all three departments – batting, bowling, and fielding. The energy was palpable from the very first over, and their experienced players rose to the occasion. This victory now marks their second consecutive win in the tournament, making them strong contenders for the WCL 2025 title.
Their next matches will be closely watched by fans and experts alike, especially with AB de Villiers in red-hot form and their bowling unit clicking perfectly.
What’s Next in WCL 2025?
As the tournament progresses, all eyes now turn to the upcoming clash between Australia Champions and West Indies Champions, scheduled for July 23, 2025, at 3:30 PM GMT. With teams warming up and competition intensifying, WCL 2025 promises to deliver thrilling cricket action from some of the greatest names the sport has ever seen.