In a thrilling display of vintage strokeplay, AB de Villiers reminded fans why he’s considered one of cricket’s most feared batters, slamming a sensational 41-ball century as South Africa Champions decimated England Champions by 10 wickets at Grace Road, Leicester, in Match 6 of the WCL 2025.

The former Proteas captain was in unstoppable form, staying unbeaten on 116 off just 51 balls, decorated with 15 fours and 7 sixes. de Villiers reached his half-century in just 20 balls and never let the scoring rate dip, dismantling the England bowling attack with effortless precision. Hashim Amla, calm and composed at the other end, played the perfect supporting role, anchoring the chase as South Africa hunted down 153 without losing a wicket.

England Champions had earlier posted a modest 152/6 from their 20 overs, with Phil Mustard top-scoring with 39. Cameos from Samit Patel (24) and Eoin Morgan (20) offered brief resistance, but they failed to pose any real threat against South Africa’s disciplined bowling unit. Wayne Parnell (2/36) and Imran Tahir (2/17) struck at regular intervals to keep England in check on a batting-friendly surface.

This dominant win puts South Africa Champions in a strong position as they head into their next clash against Pakistan Champions in Match 9 of the WCL 2025. For the fans in Leicester, watching AB de Villiers in full flight was pure nostalgia — a throwback to the days when bowlers feared his very presence at the crease.