BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC-South Africa’s super star AB deVilliers is set for his first stint in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) after signing to play for Barbados Tridents, officials announced yesterday.
The South African test and ODI captain says he is excited about the prospects of playing in the CPL expected to take place in July.
The announcement comes days after Barbados Pride was purchased for a reported franchise fee of US 2 million by Dr Vijay Mallya, owner of the Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise in the Indian Premier League which de Villiers plays for.
“Barbados is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and I am honoured to have been invited to join the Tridents,” said De Villiers.
“The CPL has been growing each year, and I’m pleased that this year the league fits so neatly within the Proteas’ international schedule”.
De Villiers’ participation in CPL 2016 is not expected to clash with any of South Africa’s international fixtures.
The CPL is expected to be played during dates to be announced in July soon after South Africa’s campaign in a tri-series in the West Indies in June, where Australia are the third team.
“I’ve had a careful look at my schedule and am looking forward to the next few months. For players in my position, it is important to find a balance between playing international cricket and participating in the various T20 leagues around the world,” said de Villiers.
“I remain absolutely committed to international cricket but, this year, it just so happens I can play in the CPL as well; in contrast, for example, I have declined offers to play in the Big Bash League in Australia because it clashes with our home series against Sri Lanka.”
