AB de Villiers says playing in tournaments such as the Indian Premier League keeps him energetic and motivated to continue performing and be a role model for young kids in South Africa.
De Villiers retired from international cricket in May 2018, but he has been actively involved in global T20 leagues thereafter.
The 35-year-old is currently representing Royal Challengers Bangalore in the 2019 IPL and remains sharp on the field, impressing with his acrobatic efforts.
On Saturday, De Villiers pinged a 38-ball 59* against Kings XI Punjab, which led Bangalore to their first win of the season.
"This kind of tournament, I'm playing every now and then, every 2-3 months. [It] really keeps me energetic," he said. "I get to work with university guys back home. With some of the local guys and local youngsters, which really gives me the energy and really motivates me to be better for some of the youngsters back home and be an example for them.”
De Villiers also expressed his delight at being joined by countryman and good friend Dale Steyn. The fast bowler was signed up as a replacement for the injured Nathan Coulter-Nile and will be available for selection after Bangalore's next game, against Mumbai Indians.
"I think it was a fantastic move to get Dale involved," De Villiers gushed. "We all know what he's capable of. One thing is for sure, you'll get 200 percent from him. He'll give his absolute best every single time he bowls for the team and it's just going to be great to have a guy of that calibre and another great human being in our team.”
African News Agency