Dewald Brevis: Love to be compared with AB de Villiers, but want my own identity as well
South Africa U19 batter Dewald Brevis said that he doesn’t mind being compared to the legendary AB de Villiers, but he also put forth the importance of carving a niche for himself. The 18-year-old Brevis is currently busy plying his trade in the U19 World Cup in the West Indies.
Brevis has arguably been the standout batter for his team in the tournament. as he is their leading run-scorer with 202 runs at an average and strike rate of 101 and 80.15 respectively.
The Johannesburg-born Brevis called De Villiers his “role model” and showed his admiration for the retired batter. The all-rounder also went down the memory lane and talked about his first interaction with De Villiers.
AB de Villiers is one of the best in the world: Dewald Brevis
“AB de Villiers is my hero and role model from a very young age and I like to be compared with him. He is a legend and one of the best in the whole world. But it’s also important for me to have my own identity,” Brevis was quoted as saying on the sidelines of the U19 World Cup.
“I met him for the first time and he was so open and spent a lot of time with me. At first I was overwhelmed and I couldn’t get a word out. I just sat there and listened to him and as our relationship strengthened, it got easier to speak to him,” he stated.
Similar to De Villiers, who retired from all forms of cricket last year, Brevis proudly dons the No.17 behind his back. Speaking on the same, the right-hander said that he talked to the veteran before zeroing in on his jersey.
“AB always played with the No.17 jersey and I wanted to wear a jersey with the same number. I asked him if I can carry the No.17 on my back and he said ‘you’re welcome’. It’s a big honour for me,” Brevis added.
Brevis started his U19 World Cup sojourn with a well-made 65 against Yash Dhull’s India in Providence and followed it up with a 104-run knock against Uganda in Port of Spain. The Young Turk has also picked up four wickets at fairly decent economy rates.