Franchises keen on signing AB de Villiers for the Big Bash League

The Superman from South Africa, AB de Villiers has shocked the entire cricketing fraternity with his sudden retirement. This news came quite unexpectedly as everyone expected de Villiers to continue till the World Cup 2019, at least with the ODI format. However, he felt that all of this has taken too much of a toll on his body and opined that he was too tired to continue.

He also mentioned his wish to continue playing for his domestic side, Titans. Moreover, his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore also noted that the batsman will continue playing for them. Hence, this brings ABD to quite an interesting juncture to his professional career.

AB de Villiers to feature in the Big Bash League?

As a result of his decision, ABD is approached by the organisers of the various T20 league from around the world. Among them are the managers of the Big Bash League franchises. They are lining up at his door for his signatures to play for their club.

According to AAP, the Sydney Sixers wasted no time and spoke to de Villiers’ manager last week. “We hope we’ll be in a pretty good position if he wants to come out. From a family point of view, we feel we offer a pretty attractive package in Sydney and he’s previously stated his love for the SCG. We’re very keen to have him, should he want to come out,” said Sixers general manager Jodie Hawkins.

Brisbane Heat also didn’t want to miss out on this opportunity. “It would remiss of us not to explore the possibility of AB being available for the Heat,” their general manager Andrew McShea told the Big Bash League website. “Want to bat 3 for the @HeatBBL @ABdeVilliers17 .. I know a bloke,” their batsman Chris Lynn tweeted.

Apart from these teams, the Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Renegades, Melbourne Stars, Sydney Stars, Sydney Thunder are also looking to rope ABD into their team. Important members of the management team spoke about the likely possibilities. Also, these people are trying to get the best links with ABD to woo him to play for their teams. The Hobart Hurricanes seem to have a strong connection with Gary Kirsten.

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