Abraham Benjamin de Villiers, commonly known as AB de Villiers, is a former South African cricketer who is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and versatile batsmen in the history of the game. Born on February 17, 1984, in Pretoria, South Africa, De Villiers made his international debut in Test cricket against England in 2004.

Early Career:
AB De Villiers made his test debut as a 20 year old on 16 December 2004 against England at Port Elizabeth. He quickly established himself as a prodigious talent, showcasing his abilities as a batsman, excellent fielder and wicketkeeper. His early years in international cricket were marked by impressive performances, and he became a key player for the South African team across all formats.

Batting Style:
Known for his unorthodox shot selection, 360-degree stroke play and incredible athleticism, De Villiers became a modern-day cricketing phenomenon. His batting style combined classical technique with the ability to innovate, making him a formidable opponent for bowlers in any conditions.

Test Cricket:
In Test cricket, De Villiers played 114 matches, amassing over 8,765 runs at an impressive average of around 50.66. He scored 22 centuries and 46 half-centuries during his Test career, displaying his consistency and ability to convert starts into big scores.

One Day Internationals (ODIs):
De Villiers had a stellar ODI career, playing 228 matches and accumulating more than 9,427 runs at an average of approximately 53.50. His strike rate of over 100 highlighted his ability to score quickly. Notably, he holds the record for the fastest century in ODIs, reaching three figures in just 31 balls against the West Indies in 2015.

T20 Internationals:
In T20 Internationals, De Villiers represented South Africa in 78 matches, scoring over 1,672 runs at an impressive strike rate. His adaptability and innovative approach made him a sought-after player in various T20 leagues around the world.

AB De Villiers best innings of all time.

Retirement:

AB de Villiers announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket in May 2018. It was rumored that he was playing for 2 years with an eye injury. Leaving a significant void in South African cricket. His decision was met with disappointment from fans globally, acknowledging the loss of one of the game’s true entertainers.

Legacy:
De Villiers‘ impact on the game extends beyond statistics; his flair, sportsmanship, and ability to redefine the limits of batting have left an indelible mark on cricket. He remains a beloved figure in the cricketing world, celebrated for his remarkable contributions and memorable moments on the field.

AB de Villiers has been associated with two  cricket bat brands throughout his career. Kookaburra  (Kahuna) and MRF in the last years of his Cricket career.

As of my last knowledge in January 2022, he has been batting with the MRF Genius Elite English Willow Cricket bat. It retails at a price of £447.95 on estimate.

Other MRF AB De Villiers related bats are :

Mrf AB De Villiers 360 Cricket bat estimate price currently at

MRF stands for Madras Rubber Factory, an Indian multinational company known for producing sports goods, including high-quality cricket equipment. MRF has gained recognition in the cricket world for crafting top-notch bats used by some of the world’s leading cricketers.

The characteristics of a cricket bat used by a player like AB de Villiers often align with the demands of modern limited-overs cricket, especially T20s, where aggressive stroke play and quick scoring are crucial. Here are some general characteristics that elite T20 bats, including those used by de Villiers, might possess:

Willow Quality:

MRF, like other reputable bat manufacturers, selects premium English willow for its high-end bats. English willow is favored for its superior quality and performance on the field.
Profile and Shape:

T20 bats typically have a slightly different profile compared to traditional formats. They often have a lower sweet spot to facilitate aggressive shots, especially aerial ones. The edges and spine may be pronounced, providing additional power to shots.
Weight and Balance:

Bats used in T20s are usually lighter to allow for quick bat speed, enabling players to react swiftly to deliveries. The balance is crucial, and many players, including de Villiers, prefer a well-balanced bat that allows them to play a wide array of shots with control.
Handle and Grip:

The handle of a T20 bat is designed for comfort and control. Some players prefer a slightly thicker handle for a better grip. The choice of grip may vary, with players selecting one that provides the right combination of feel and control during intense innings.
Sticker Design:

The aesthetics of the bat often include vibrant sticker designs representing the brand and sometimes custom graphics associated with the player. AB de Villiers’ bats with MRF typically featured the distinctive MRF logo and branding.
Endorsement and Customization:

Bats used by professional cricketers like de Villiers may have custom features tailored to the player’s preferences. This can include modifications to the shape, weight distribution, and other aspects to suit the individual player’s style.
Technology and Innovation:

Bat manufacturers, including the bat manufacturers for MRF, invest in research and development to incorporate new technologies. This can include features like enhanced sweet spots, anti-vibration technology, and advanced manufacturing processes to optimize performance.
It’s important to note that cricket bat preferences can evolve, and players may switch brands or bat models based on their comfort and performance. The specifics of the bat AB de Villiers currently uses would depend on his latest endorsements and preferences, which may have changed since my last update.