AB de Villiers: Playing in 2025 WCL

Now, AB de Villiers most recognisable and cherished Test cricketers we have in this era of ageing, has been away from international cricket since he stepped down in 2018. Out of the South Africa's national team during his retirement caused a wasteland in the world of cricket because his unusual method of striking and the style attracted a lot of the cricket crazies all over with left to right sweeps. Yet, there have been some rumors and speculation in recent months about a return to competitive cricket, in 2025.

So far, we know what is known: AB de Villiers comes back
Since his retirement, AB de Villiers who was questioned about the possibility of return to test cricket and every time has left the door open and stated that he will come back when everything makes sense.Now with nothing but 2025 coming up, there is a fresh revival on the possibility of his comeback.

It has been de Villiers may turn up in a few high profile leagues or cup competitions to re-establish himself as competitive cricket player. De Villiers was also linked to the World Champions League (WCL), a brand new cricket league that was probably created on paper merely as a potential tournament in which veteran stars could compete. The WCL would include some of the best cricketers on the planet, past their peak heyday and show impression on international spectators as well.

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The World Champions League: a new chapter in the world of cricket
The WCL is also causing quite a stir, even though there are still a lot of clouds over this structure of the international game; such an idea has raised a lot of attention. Provided the opportunity, perhaps de Villiers can play again using this platform against some of the best players of cricket in the world.
Now still officially a work in progress with no official format nor teams announced, the league seems to be wrestling with how to create another IPL/shadowing leagues that are largely international in scope.
It is likely that the WCL will mix current stars and legends in a really cool caliber of youth with experience.

It’s official. I will be playing for the South African team @WCLSAChampions in the upcoming @WclLeague 2025! 🌟

Mark your calendars: the tournament runs from 18th July to 2nd August.

Can’t wait to renew rivalry with so many legends from five other countries. I’m heading to the… pic.twitter.com/4GnUwdP8LB

— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) January 28, 2025

Shikhar Dhawan Joins Team India for the 2025 World Championship of Legends

In 2025, there will be an exceptionally wonderful World Championship of Legends for cricket. It's going to happen the second time. They want to make cricket as amazing as it was in the old days also. Shikhar Dhawan, who is clearly a very famous cricket player from India, said he will play for team India. Everyone is discussing it.

Since he's going to play, the games will be even more amazing. People can't wait to see him play and make the championship very exciting. The first major player to say yes for this year.Co-Owner of Team India, Sumant Bahl, expressed his enthusiasm about the signing of the stylish left-handed opener, saying, "Shikhar Dhawan adds a lot of flair and strength to our team as we are focused on defending our title as the winners of WCL season 1. We will be retaining some of the greats from last year and adding some new players to make our team stronger and better." This signals a strong commitment to maintaining a competitive edge and upholding the high standards set in the inaugural season.

Shikhar Dhawan will play for India Champions in the WCL starting July.@SDhawan25 | #ShikharDhawan pic.twitter.com/PThdLdpKOB

— sʜɪᴋʜᴀʀ ᴅʜᴀᴡᴀɴ Fan 𝕏 (@dhawan_fan_) January 25, 2025

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Harshit Tomar, the Founder and CEO of the World Championship of Legends, also shared his excitement:  With the participation of Shikhar Dhawan coming to play for the WCL second edition, we are instilled with the faith that our League will mean more for ardent cricket fans. We are certain that we are moving in the direction of the league’s goal, which has primarily been to bring back the golden era of cricket. Following the success of the inaugural edition of the World Championship of Legends, the upcoming season. The first edition witnessed thrilling encounters, including the unforgettable Indian Champions vs. Pakistan Champions match at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham. The World Championship of Legends quickly captured the hearts of cricket fans across the globe with its electrifying performances and nostalgia-filled moments.

Shikhar Dhawan, eager to return to competitive cricket, shared his excitement: “When we have such formats like World Championship of Legends, the inspiration to get back on the field fares well. It would be a continuation of my passion for playing the best competitive cricket." His commitment to the format demonstrates the growing appeal of the WCL among legendary cricketers, and his participation will undoubtedly elevate the tournament further.

Likely Match Dates For Group Stage Matches:

Knockout Stage

Where to Watch Live

Cricket fans can catch all the action of the 2025 WCL live on the following platforms:  

       TV Broadcast: Star Sports, Sony Sports Network

       Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLIV

       Social Media Updates: Official WCL pages on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook

Manasi Joshi, a top para-badminton champion, openly criticized Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, and Suresh Raina for their lack of awareness and sensitivity in a video they posted. She stressed the need to understand and respect the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Suresh Raina, former India cricketers, are facing backlash after Manasi Joshi accused them of mocking the way people with disabilities walk.

Manasi, a former world no. 1 in her SL3 badminton category, called out the cricketers for their insensitive Instagram reel posted after their win against Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends tournament.

Harbhajan shared a video on Sunday showing the ex-India players limping and dancing to the Bollywood song “Tauba Tauba” after the match. India Champions, led by Ambati Rayudu’s 50 run performance, chased a 157 run target in the final over.

“Body ki Tauba Tauba ho Gayi in 15 days legends cricket. Every part of the body is sore,” Harbhajan wrote.

The controversial reel

Joshi, an outspoken advocate for people with disabilities, expressed her disappointment and anger over the insensitive content.

Manasi Joshi’s advocacy and response

“Wanted more responsibility from the stars that you all are, please do not mock at the gait patterns of people with disabilities. This isn’t funny.

“You don’t know how much harm your behaviour can do. The appreciation you’re getting from people around is appalling to see. This reel of yours is going to encourage that it is ok to make fun of the walking patterns of people with disabilities for a few laughs. More young children with disabilities will be bullied by using this reel. If any of you athletes would have done responsible community service in disability space area, you all would not have come up with this reel. I’m scared how the PR agencies of these athletes approved this reel for public platform,” Manasi wrote

“This isn’t legendary if you’re mocking the gait patterns of people with polio. This will enable bullying on young children with disabilities in India,” Manasi added.