AB De Villiers is a Different Level of Class, Says Glenn Maxwell
There's a reason why AB de Villiers is considered to be the best ODI batsman. His latest monster knock saw him score the second fastest World Cup century.
In a cricket world that has the likes of Gayle, Kohli, Warner and McCullum, there's a reason why AB de Villiers is considered to be the best ODI batsman. The reason is the 31-year-old batsman's incredible batting prowess, coupled with jaw-dropping athleticism and innovation. (Match Highlights | Scorecard | Report)
Three of South Africa's top-four scored fifties versus the West Indies, but the one who completely changed the complexion of the match was De Villiers. The Proteas captain smashed the Windies bowling to all corners of the park, bringing up a 100 off just 52 balls. He continued his whirlwind knock, remaining not out on an incredible 162 off just 66 balls. He went from 100 to 150 in a mere 12 balls, prompting other power-hitters to tip their hat to arguably the most formidable power-hitter of modern times. David Warner tweeted to say, "Woweeeeee that's some serious hitting by the best batter in the world @ABdeVilliers17. Bow down wow, what a performance." Glenn Maxwell said, "Different level of class!"
Woweeeeee that's some serious hitting by the best batter in the world @ABdeVilliers17 Bow down wow what a performance @ICCW0rldCup
- David Warner (@davidwarner31) February 27, 2015
Different level of class!
- Glenn Maxwell (@Gmaxi_32) February 27, 2015
The praise is understandable. After all, AB's century is now the 2nd fastest World Cup century of all time. He also set the record for the fastest 150 in ODI history with this knock, which means he now holds the record for the fastest 50, 100 and 150 in ODIs. His 162 not out included 17 fours and 8 sixes. (Fixtures | Points Table)
That de Villiers relishes the West Indian bowling is no secret. Just over a month ago he demolished the same opposition (West Indies), to shatter the world record for the fastest ODI 100. That monster knock, saw AB bring up his 100 off just 31 balls. A World Cup 100 though is always more special. Tom Moody tweeted to say, "I believe we've just witnessed why AB de Villiers is the BEST in the World."
I believe we've just witnessed why AB de Villiers is the BEST in the World. #WCC15 #MasterClass
- Tom Moody (@TomMoodyCricket) February 27, 2015The West Indians were left licking their wounds while Indian fans will be heaving a sigh of relief that de Villiers didn't cause the same carnage at the MCG when India played South Africa last week.