AB de Villiers, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, is known for his ability to play shots all around the ground. His innovative batting style and quick reflexes have made him a fan favorite. Throughout his career, he has played some of the most memorable innings in cricket history. In this blog, we will take a look at AB de Villiers Best Knocks, which showcase his immense talent and ability to dominate any bowling attack.
AB de Villiers Best Knocks: Greatest of Mr.360
1. 149 off 44 Balls vs West Indies (Fastest ODI Century – 2015)
The Record-Breaking Innings
In 2015, AB de Villiers set the cricketing world on fire with a mind-blowing innings against the West Indies at Johannesburg. He scored the fastest century in ODI history, reaching 100 runs in just 31 balls.
Key Highlights:
- Scored 149 runs off just 44 balls
- Hit 16 sixes and 9 fours
- Reached his fifty in just 16 balls
- Made 100 runs in 31 balls, breaking the previous record
This innings proved why AB de Villiers was called ‘Mr. 360’, as he played shots in every direction with ease.
2. 162* off 66 Balls vs West Indies (2015 Cricket World Cup)
During the 2015 Cricket World Cup, ABD once again destroyed the West Indies bowling attack, smashing an unbeaten 162 runs off just 66 balls. His knock helped South Africa post a huge total and led them to victory.
Key Highlights:
- Scored 162 runs off just 66 balls*
- Fastest 150 in ODI history (off 64 balls)
- Maintained a strike rate of 245.45
This innings is one of the best in World Cup history, proving his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.
3. 278* vs Pakistan (Highest Test Score – 2010)
While AB de Villiers was known for his explosive batting in limited-overs cricket, he also had an incredible record in Test cricket. Against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi (2010), he played a marathon innings of 278 runs*, which remains the highest individual Test score by a South African.
Key Highlights:
- Scored 278 runs off 418 balls*
- Hit 23 fours and 6 sixes
- Batted for almost 9 hours
This innings showed that ABD was not just an aggressive batsman but also a patient and disciplined Test cricketer.
4. 106* vs Australia (Perth – 2008)
One of AB de Villiers’ most underappreciated innings came against Australia in 2008, where he guided South Africa to a historic victory by chasing down 414 runs in the fourth innings.
Key Highlights:
- Scored 106 off 186 balls*
- Helped South Africa chase 414 runs, their highest successful run chase
- Displayed immense composure under pressure
This knock proved that ABD was not just a T20 star but also a match-winner in Test cricket.
5. 174 vs England (Headingley – 2008)
Facing England in Headingley (2008), AB de Villiers played a match-winning innings of 174 runs, helping South Africa secure a historic series victory in England.
Key Highlights:
- Scored 174 runs off 381 balls
- Helped South Africa win a crucial Test match
- Displayed solid technique and patience
This innings was a great example of his adaptability, as he adjusted his game according to the situation.
ABD’s Best Innings in IPL
Apart from international cricket, AB de Villiers was also a legend in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Here are two of his most memorable IPL knocks:
1. 133* off 59 Balls vs Mumbai Indians (2015)
- Smashed 133 off 59 balls*
- Played outstanding strokes all around the ground
- Helped RCB post a massive total
2. 129* off 52 Balls vs Gujarat Lions (2016)
- Played an explosive innings of 129 off 52 balls*
- Hit 12 sixes and 10 fours
- Built a strong partnership with Virat Kohli
These innings proved why ABD was one of the most feared batsmen in IPL history.
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Conclusion
AB de Villiers has played many unforgettable innings throughout his career. Whether it was breaking records in ODIs, leading South Africa to victory in Tests, or entertaining fans in the IPL, he has always been a treat to watch. His ability to play unorthodox shots and his fearless approach made him a legend of the game.
Summary of AB de Villiers Best Knocks:
| Match | Runs | Balls | Format |
| vs West Indies (2015) | 149 | 44 | ODI |
| vs West Indies (2015 WC) | 162* | 66 | ODI |
| vs Pakistan (2010) | 278* | 418 | Test |
| vs Australia (2008) | 106* | 186 | Test |
| vs England (2008) | 174 | 381 | Test |
AB de Villiers’ ability to innovate, adapt, and execute made him one of the greatest cricketers of all time. Even though he has retired, AB de villiers best knocks will always be remembered as some of the best in cricket history.
Which AB de Villiers innings is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!