AB de Villiers will return to the Royal Challengers Bangalore set-up for next year’s IPL.

The Proteas batsman retired from all cricket after last year’s IPL. He scored 4,491 runs for Bangalore in 146 matches at an average of 41.20.

De Villiers’ former teammate, Virat Kohli, hinted at De Villiers’ return in a video posted on Bangalore’s Twitter account.

“I miss him a lot. We stay in touch and he’s very keenly watching RCB and hopefully here next year in some capacity,” said Kohli, and then smiled and stated: “Did I spill the beans?”

Speaking to India’s VUSport, De Villiers then confirmed that he’d be returning to the Bangalore change room next year, although his role is unknown.

“I am glad to hear Virat confirmed it. To be honest, we haven’t decided on anything yet. I will definitely be around IPL next year,” said De Villiers. “I am not sure in what capacity, but I am missing getting back there.

“I have heard a little bird tweeting, saying that there might be some games in Bangalore. So, I would love to return to my second hometown [Bangalore] and watch the full-capacity stadium there at the Chinnaswamy again.

“I would love to return, I am looking forward to it.”