Proteas batting legend AB de Villiers has confirmed that he will be a part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2023.

De Villiers had retired from all forms of cricket in November last year and he is not being seen in action in the ongoing IPL season for the first time since the tournament’s inception in 2008.

Earlier this month, veteran RCB batter Virat Kohli dropped a major hint that De Villiers would be reuniting with the Bangalore-based franchise next year.

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Although AB de Villiers didn’t clarify in which capacity he will return to the IPL, he confirmed that his association will be with the RCB only.

"I am glad to hear Virat confirmed it. To be honest, we haven’t decided on anything yet. I will definitely be around IPL next year. I am not sure in what capacity but I am missing getting back there,” he told VUSport.

“I have heard a little bird tweeting, saying that there might be some games in Bangalore. So I would love to return to my second hometown (Bangalore) and watch the full capacity stadium there at the Chinnaswamy again. I would love to return, I am looking forward to it,” the 38-year-old added.

Last week, AB de Villiers was induced into RCB’s Hall of Fame. He joined the Bangalore-based franchise in 2011 after spending a few seasons with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). He remained part of the RCB side until his retirement from all forms of cricket last year.

De Villiers played 156 matches for Bangalore in IPL and he scored 4, 491 runs. He is the second most runs scorer behind Virat Kohli for RCB.