IPL 2026: AB de Villiers Names Greatest T20 Player, Not Kohli or Gayle

Former South Africa star and Royal Challengers Bengaluru legend AB de Villiers has revealed his pick for the greatest T20 player of all time and it’s not Virat Kohli or Chris Gayle.

The surprising choice has sparked fresh debate among cricket fans, especially ahead of IPL 2026 , where discussions around the best T20 players continue to dominate conversations.

AB de Villiers Picks His Greatest T20 Player

De Villiers, widely regarded as one of the most destructive batters in T20 history, was asked to name the greatest player in the format. While many expected him to choose Kohli or Gayle both legends of the game he went in a different direction.

“My greatest T20 player of all time is none other than Rashid Khan . He delivers with bat and ball. Match winner in both departments; he is a livewire in the field and has got the heart of a lion. He always wants to win; he's very competitive, and he’s right there with one of the best T20 players. Not one of the best, the best,” AB de Villiers said.

Why Rashid Khan Stands Out

De Villiers’ choice highlights the importance of all-round impact in modern T20 cricket. Rashid Khan is known for his ability to influence matches with both bat and ball, along with his exceptional fielding skills.

Unlike traditional batters, Rashid brings balance to any team he plays for, making him a consistent match-winner across leagues worldwide.

Not Kohli or Gayle: A Surprising Call

The decision becomes even more interesting given De Villiers’ close association with Kohli and Gayle during his time at Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL.

Both Kohli and Gayle have dominated the T20 format for years—Kohli with his consistency and Gayle with his explosive power-hitting. However, De Villiers believes that Rashid’s all-round abilities give him an edge over pure batters.

T20 Cricket’s Evolution Reflected in the Choice

De Villiers’ statement also reflects how T20 cricket has evolved over the years. Today, players who can contribute in multiple departments—batting, bowling, and fielding—are often seen as more valuable.

Rashid Khan perfectly fits that mold, which explains why he continues to be one of the most sought-after players in leagues like the IPL.

Debate Likely to Continue Among Fans

As IPL 2026 approaches, debates around the greatest T20 player are only expected to intensify. While fans of Kohli and Gayle may disagree, De Villiers’ opinion adds an interesting perspective to the discussion.

With T20 cricket constantly evolving, the definition of “greatness” may continue to change—but for De Villiers, the answer is clear.