AB de Villiers turned back the clock with a moment of sheer brilliance during the World Championship of Legends 2025 semi-final between South Africa Champions and Australia Champions at Edgbaston. The former Proteas star pulled off an extraordinary catch to dismiss a dangerous-looking Chris Lynn, who was cruising at 35 off just 20 balls.
Lynn attempted to loft a length ball over mid-on, but AB de Villiers—ever the livewire in the field—was already on the move. Positioned at mid-on, he instinctively turned over his left shoulder and sprinted towards the boundary without taking his eyes off the trajectory he predicted. Only after gaining ground did he glance upwards, completing a sharp, circling run before snatching the catch just inside the long-on boundary.
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It was a moment that left commentators gasping and fans erupting in appreciation. The cricket fraternity quickly lauded the effort, praising de Villiers for showcasing the athleticism that once defined his international career. Even years after retirement, his reflexes and anticipation remain world-class.
No way this guy is playing with detached retina 🥵 #ABDevilliers #Cricket #abdfans pic.twitter.com/SBunkb2w0u
— Mahirat 718 (@mahirat01) August 1, 2025
As for the contest itself, it was a thriller that went right down to the wire. Morne van Wyk’s blistering 76 off 35 deliveries helped South Africa post 186/8. Australia seemed in control at 129/3 after 15 overs, but South Africa clawed back remarkably.
With 14 needed off the final over, Wayne Parnell held his nerve and executed perfectly under pressure, sealing a one-run victory. South Africa now advances to the final, where they will meet Pakistan Champions in what promises to be an exciting summit clash.
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South Africa Champions (Playing XI): AB de Villiers(c), JJ Smuts, Jacques Rudolph, Sarel Erwee, Jean-Paul Duminy, Henry Davids, Morne van Wyk(w), Wayne Parnell, Hardus Viljoen, Aaron Phangiso, Duanne Olivier
Australia Champions (Playing XI): Shaun Marsh, Chris Lynn, D Arcy Short, Ben Dunk(w), Daniel Christian, Callum Ferguson, Ben Cutting, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Peter Siddle, Brett Lee(c), Steve OKeefe
