The 2025 World Championship of Legends ended with a dominant display by the South Africa Champions - who beat Pakistan Champions by 9 wickets in the final on Sunday.
Chasing 196, AB de Villiers hit a stunning 120* off just 60 balls. He took his team home in just 16.5 overs. His knock earned him both the Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament awards.
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JP Duminy scored 50* off 28 deliveries in the chase but it was de Villiers' vintage brilliance that stood out as Pakistan's bowlers failed to contain the hitting.
India Champions' WCL semi-final withdrawal triggers Raina's national pride message
Earlier, it was India Champions' withdrawal from their scheduled semi-final against Pakistan Champions that created headlines. The match was called off by tournament organisers which allowed Pakistan to progress to the final without playing.
Responding to AB de Villiers' final heroics, former India batter Suresh Raina shared a message on X, saying:
"What a knock by AB de Villiers in the final, absolutely smashed it. Had we played, we would’ve crushed them too, but we chose our nation above everything else."
In the final, Pakistan posted 195/5 with Sharjeel Khan scoring 76 and Umar Amin adding 36*. But despite a strong total, their bowlers had no answers for South Africa's top order.
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While South Africa deservedly took the trophy, Raina's post reminded fans that this WCL season might be remembered as much for India's absence as for the performances that followed.