• AB to play for Heat in Big Bash League

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    Former Proteas captain AB de Villiers will play for the Brisbane Heat in Australia’s Big Bash League next year.

    De Villiers will join the Heat for the second half of the 2019-20 tournament. His first fixture will likely be against the Hobart Hurricanes on 9 January.

    The 35-year-old de Villiers will be captained by fellow Indian Premier League recruit Chris Lynn at the Heat. De Villiers and Lynn represented the Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders, respectively, in the 2019 IPL.

    ‘I’ve spoken to Chris a few times after games in the IPL. I always enjoy the way he plays the game; he really goes after the bowling, he attacks the game, and he seems like a really good teammate. He gives his best shot for the boys. I’m looking forward to joining forces with him. The Heat have always stood out to me,’ said de Villiers.

    The hard-hitting de Villiers represented Middlesex in the T20 Blast in the United Kingdom last month. He has been retained by the Tshwane Spartans for South Africa’s Mzansi Super League later this year.

    ‘World-class players don’t just come along every day and to have a player of AB’s stature and skill in the BBL is a fantastic outcome for everyone, not just the Heat. He’s a 360-degree player: great skills, outstanding temperament, and an insightful leader. We’re excited to bring him into the group this summer and allow him to showcase his skills for the fans,’ said Heat head coach Darren Lehmann.

    Photo: Gallo Images

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    SA CRICKET