Dubai: The versatile AB de Villiers has decided to skip the Big Bash League (BBL) this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The other reason why AB de Villiers is skipping Big Bash is the upcoming birth of his third child. However, he is open to return in future due to ‘unfinished business’ at the Brisbane Heat franchise.
The two factors prompted the former South African skipper to pull out of the T20 league. The 36-year-old is currently playing in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the UAE.
“We are expecting our latest child very soon. With a young, growing family, and the uncertainty around travel and conditions due to COVID-19, we reluctantly decided it wasn’t going to be this season. So I have opted out of BBL,” De Villiers said in a statement Tuesday.
“The Heat were great to us last season. I am very open to returning to the club in future. The team didn’t get the results we were hoping for. I consider there is some unfinished business to deal with,” the South African added.
De Villiers signed a contract with the BBL franchise last season and scored 146 runs at an average of 24.33. The seasoned campaigner has been in fine form in the ongoing IPL. He has amassed 324 runs at an average of 54.
Brisbane Heats head coach said the team was keen to have De Villiers’ service in the upcoming season. The Big Bash League is scheduled to start December 3. In the first game Adelaide Strikers take on and Melbourne Renegades.