In a fitting finale to the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, South Africa Champions overpowered Pakistan Champions by nine wickets, thanks to a spectacular unbeaten century from their captain AB de Villiers. His dazzling knock of 120 off 60 balls*, supported by Jean-Paul Duminy’s solid 50 off 28*, guided South Africa to a comprehensive chase of 196 in just 16.5 overs, sealing their maiden WCL title.
Pakistan Post a Strong Total
After winning the toss, Pakistan Champions elected to bat first and posted a competitive 195/5 in their 20 overs. Opener Sharjeel Khan led the charge with a blistering 76 off 44 deliveries, smashing 9 fours and 4 sixes. His powerplay assault gave Pakistan the momentum early on, but wickets at regular intervals prevented a complete domination.
Mohammad Hafeez and Kamran Akmal fell cheaply, but the middle order contributed well. Asif Ali chipped in with 28 off 15, while Umar Amin finished strong with an unbeaten 36 off 19 to push the score close to the 200-mark.
For South Africa, Wayne Parnell (2/32) and Hardus Viljoen (2/38) were the standout bowlers, keeping the Pakistan batters from running away with the game in the death overs.
AB de Villiers Turns Back the Clock
Chasing 196 under pressure, South Africa started strongly before losing Hashim Amla for 18 in the 6th over, dismissed by Saeed Ajmal. That brought together AB de Villiers and Jean-Paul Duminy, who went on to script one of the most dominant partnerships of the tournament.
De Villiers, nicknamed "Mr. 360" for his unorthodox shot-making, put on a vintage display, reaching his third century of the tournament in just 47 balls. His final tally of 120 from 60 balls* included 12 boundaries and 7 sixes, rendering the Pakistan bowling attack ineffective.
At the other end, Duminy played the perfect supporting role. His 50 off 28 balls* featured four boundaries and two sixes, ensuring the run rate never dipped and the pressure was firmly kept on the opposition.
Their unbroken 125-run partnership helped South Africa chase the target in just 16.5 overs, finishing with 197/1 and lifting the trophy in style.
Pakistan’s Bowling Fails to Deliver
Despite a strong start with the bat, Pakistan’s bowling lineup struggled under pressure. Saeed Ajmal’s early breakthrough couldn’t be backed up, as bowlers like Sohail Tanvir, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, and Imad Wasim leaked runs.
There was a lack of control and variation, and once de Villiers settled, no bowler looked capable of breaking the stand. The fielding also let Pakistan down, with missed chances further compounding the pressure.
Tournament Highlights
AB de Villiers finished as the Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament, with three centuries in the campaign.
South Africa had earlier defeated Australia Champions in a thrilling one-run win in the semi-finals, where de Villiers also effected a last-ball run-out and took a sensational diving catch.
Pakistan reached the final after India Champions forfeited their semi-final clash due to off-field reasons.
Post-Match Reactions
Speaking after the match, AB de Villiers said,
“It’s been a magical journey. To wear the South African colors again and lift a global trophy with my teammates is something I’ll cherish forever. The body may not be 25 anymore, but the heart still beats for cricket.”
Teammates praised his leadership and fitness, especially as he played through a minor hamstring concern throughout the tournament. Duminy hailed the partnership as one of his most memorable, calling it "classic Proteas cricket."
Looking Ahead
The WCL 2025 proved to be a massive success, drawing packed crowds, competitive cricket, and nostalgic performances from some of the game’s greatest names. The final between Pakistan and South Africa was the perfect climax — showcasing explosive batting, smart strategy, and the ageless brilliance of cricketing legends.
With the victory, South Africa Champions etched their name into the WCL history books, led by a player who continues to defy age and redefine greatness — AB de Villiers.