All of AB de Villiers’ spectacular 41-year cricketing journey, innumerable records, and thousands of headlines, if there was one blot on the copybook of his glorious career, it was that he never won a major international trophy. That tale was rewritten on August 2, 2025, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, when de Villiers finally claimed an international trophy as South Africa Champions defeated Pakistan Champions by a convincing nine wickets to become the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 winners.
The Final: South Africa vs Pakistan
The tournament was a thrilling one, and the Pakistani champions were the favorites going into the final. Winning the toss under bright English skies, which always guarantees fireworks, they opted to bat, and their top order made the most of the opportunity. Sharjeel Khan opened up looking to attack and was the top scorer with 76 off 44 balls, while Umar Amin provided a late flurry with 36 off 19. Against any other team on any other day, despite losing frequent wickets, Pakistan managed to make a decent 195/5 in 20 overs, which seemed defendable at least.
But this was de Villiers’ day. Despite seemingly struggling with a hamstring injury, AB strode to the crease as South Africa’s captain, opened the chase, and went about obliterating the Pakistani attack. Of course, it was only him that the Edgbaston crowd watched as the king of the ramps and reverse sweeps, and no-look sixes turned up. His 120 runs not only included 12 boundaries and 7 sixes but were more than just a captain’s innings – this was the innings of his life!
South Africa were never behind the rate, even after losing Hashim Amla early. South Africa chased down their target in a tournament final in a major event by scoring 197/1 in 16.5 overs with 19 balls to spare. JP Duminy, the loyal lieutenant, came in and joined de Villiers and also brought up his own half-century, 50 off 28 balls, hitting the winning runs with a booming six, and all hell broke loose.
A Closure for AB de Villiers
For the first time, AB de Villiers has raised an international trophy. The South African great assisted the South African Champions in winning the World Championship of the Legends (WCL) 2025, despite never having won an ICC or IPL championship during his career. His squad won the cup after defeating the Pakistani champions by a significant margin in the final, which was held in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
In the final, ABD hit a quickfire hundred, demonstrating his incredible form. Despite having a hamstring ailment, he managed to score 100 runs with 12 fours and 7 sixes in just 47 balls.
With this victory, AB de Villiers receives his eagerly anticipated trophy and a triumphant conclusion to an unforgettable competition. De Villiers never backed down, even as he hobbled through the last overs. Both his teammates and fans around the world admired his steely resolve, sharp timing, and showmanship; some of them even broke down in tears of happiness when the final six flew over the distance and history was altered.
Match Summary
| Pakistan Champions – 195/5 (20 overs) | |
| Sharjeel Khan 76 (44) | Wayne Parnell 2/32 (4) |
| Umar Amin 36* (19) | Hardus Viljoen 2/38 (4) |
| South Africa Champions – 197/1 (16.5 overs) | |
| AB de Villiers 120* (60) | Saeed Ajmal 1/32 (4) |
| Jean-Paul Duminy 50* (28) | Rumman Raees 0/33 (3.5) |
- Player of the Match – AB de Villiers
- Player of the Series – AB de Villiers
PCB bans using “Pakistan”
The World Championship of Legends (WCL) organizers are accused of being “biased” and lacking sporting integrity by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which on Sunday declared a complete ban on its players’ participation in future tournaments.
The decision comes after the Indian team lost both their semifinal match and their group-stage match against Pakistan, citing the nation’s opposition to bilateral athletic connections with the neighbour following the horrific Pahalagam terror attack.
Conclusion
The iconic picture of WCL 2025 was taken at Edgbaston as the sun was setting. It featured AB de Villiers with his trophy in the air and a smile as wide as his shot library. Some cricket tales take a long time to come to a happy conclusion. This was a memorable night for de Villiers and South African supporters worldwide—a fairy tale conclusion deserving of one of the best in the history of the game.
Written by: Raman
Audited by: Rahi
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Refresh Date: August 29, 2025
