Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers opined on Liam Livingstone leaving the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to join the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a trade deal.
He played just two matches for the Hyderabad-based franchise in IPL 2026, amassing 15 runs. AB de Villiers mentioned that parting ways with Livingstone was a loss for SRH.
“Livingstone is playing good cricket. He’s got a phenomenal golf swing. Always a big asset. Everyone was happy with the trade, but I still feel it is a big loss for SRH. Maybe he was underused throughout the last IPL. Never really got going at RCB as well. Going to CSK, new territory. He must be careful not to jump around too much. Not that it was in his control, but I would like for him to find his feet and cement his spot,” he said in a video on his YouTube channel.
Livingstone has struggled against spinners, and this could be a concern, considering the pitches at Chepauk Stadium are in favour of the slow bowlers. AB de Villiers said a lot will depend on Livingstone’s role. According to him, a good player can adapt to the conditions. He urged the England all-rounder not to overthink the conditions.
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“A lot will depend on his role. He likes to play aggressive cricket. Any wicket can suit a player if there is role clarity. The Chepauk is not always spin-friendly. I played there, and even seamers had a good day. The challenge for him will be to avoid overthinking about the stadium and that spinners will trouble him. He should have a clean mind and play accordingly,” he added.
Livingstone has played for four IPL franchises in the competition. Apart from SRH, he has represented Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings. In 51 IPL matches, he has scored 1066 runs at an average of 25.38 and a strike rate of 155.16, with seven half-centuries.
RCB should target Dewald Brevis, says AB de Villiers
AB de Villiers said that defending champions RCB should target Dewald Brevis if he is available in the IPL 2027 mini auction.
“There is a need for improvement, but it will not be easy as they have won two consecutive titles. RCB should target Dewald Brevis if he is available. I think they should go for a backup fast bowler if Josh Hazlewood gets injured or probably a wrist-spinner. Even looking for a power-hitter should be discussed in case someone loses form,” AB de Villiers said.
RCB are the defending champions and will aim for a hat-trick of titles in the 20th season.