Masterclass Moments: AB de Villiers’ 10 Best IPL Performances

Few players in world cricket possess the ability to astonish like AB de Villiers. Known as Mr. 360, he made batting look like art — and often turned the impossible into routine. Here’s a tribute to 10 of his most breathtaking IPL innings that showcased his genius.

1. 129* (52) vs Gujarat Lions – IPL 2016 An otherworldly knock that defined T20 batting brilliance.
   ABD’s innings was sheer destruction — 10 fours and 12 sixes in a partnership with Virat Kohli that rewrote IPL records. The way he picked gaps, cleared boundaries, and dismantled the opposition was vintage de Villiers — unpredictable and untouchable.
2. 105* (54) vs Chennai Super Kings – IPL 2009 A masterclass in testing South African conditions.
   Representing Delhi Daredevils, AB adapted brilliantly on a difficult Durban pitch. His use of wrists, footwork, and calmness made the innings even more special. His knock helped Delhi dominate the game against a strong CSK lineup.
3. 89* (41) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – IPL 2014 Single-handedly chased down a tough total under pressure.
   When RCB were reeling, AB decided to take on the world’s best — smashing Dale Steyn for 23 runs in an over. It was calculated violence and a tactical takedown that turned the match completely around.
4. 90* (39) vs Delhi Daredevils – IPL 2018 The Chinnaswamy crowd witnessed peak AB magic.
   Every shot was an exhibition — ramp, sweep, pull, drive, flick — and each one perfectly timed. He made 90 look like a breeze, finishing with a jaw-dropping strike rate of 230+. Even the bowlers applauded.
5. 79* (47) vs Gujarat Lions – IPL 2017 Returning from injury, he announced his presence with style.
   RCB needed a rescue act, and AB delivered it flawlessly. He mixed aggression with elegance, building a platform for RCB and reminding everyone that class never fades — it only waits for the right moment.
6. 75 (42) vs Kolkata Knight Riders – IPL 2015 Match-winning partnership with Kohli at Eden Gardens.
   In a tight chase, AB was explosive yet intelligent. His shot selection against Narine and Russell was exquisite. The innings set up a brilliant win that looked unlikely at one point.
7. 73* (33) vs Kolkata Knight Riders – IPL 2020 A storm at Sharjah that lasted less than an hour but broke records.
   On a tricky pitch, he made it look like batting on a road. In just 5 overs, he turned the match with 6 sixes, many landing in the parking lot. AB 360 in his full range.
8. 66 (38) vs Chennai Super Kings – IPL 2018 Crafting boundaries out of nowhere, even on turning pitches.
   His ability to read spinners and improvise made CSK’s plans ineffective. Sweeps, reverse-scoops, and slog-sweeps — AB used every shot in the book to power RCB to a strong total.
9. 59* (23) vs Delhi Capitals – IPL 2019 Short but brutal — a finisher’s cameo with artistry.
   Coming in late, AB didn’t waste a ball. Everything that landed in his arc went flying. His controlled aggression ensured the chase was a walk rather than a fight.
10. 41 (24) vs Mumbai Indians – IPL 2021 A fight that nearly turned the match on its head.
    Despite wickets falling, AB launched into Bumrah and Boult with fierce intent. Though RCB fell just short, his knock was yet another reminder of his ability to lift pressure and infuse hope.

Conclusion

AB de Villiers didn’t just bat — he created magic. He could turn the tide in a single over, stun the best bowlers, and bring fans to their feet with strokes that defied physics. These 10 innings are a glimpse into a legacy built on innovation, heart, and jaw-dropping brilliance.

*Disclaimer: This article is fan-curated and based on public match data up to IPL 2025. All stats are sourced from official IPL archives and Cricinfo.