Discover the inspiring journey of Dewald Brevis, South Africa’s rising cricket star known as “Baby AB.” From schoolboy sensation to IPL fame, explore how Brevis’s fearless batting, record-breaking knocks, and determination made him one of world cricket’s brightest young talents.
Introduction
Every generation in cricket produces a prodigy who captures the imagination of fans with raw talent, fearlessness, and flair. For South Africa, that name is Dewald Brevis. Nicknamed “Baby AB” for his uncanny resemblance to AB de Villiers in stroke play and temperament, Brevis has become one of the brightest young prospects in world cricket.
From smashing school cricket records to dazzling in international T20 leagues, Brevis’s journey is one of grit, confidence, and boundless potential. This article dives deep into his story — from early struggles to international stardom — exploring how a young boy from Johannesburg is shaping into South Africa’s next great cricket icon.
Early Life and Background
Dewald Brevis was born on April 29, 2003, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Raised in a cricket-loving family, Brevis’s passion for the game was evident from a young age. His parents encouraged his sporting pursuits, enrolling him in the Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies) — the same school that produced AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis, and Jacques Rudolph.
It was here that his love for cricket turned into an obsession. Teachers often recall Brevis practicing late into the evening, refining his technique, footwork, and signature lofted shots over cover — a trademark that fans now associate with him.
School Cricket: The Birth of “Baby AB”
At the school level, Brevis quickly became a phenomenon. His shot selection, balance, and ability to play 360-degree shots earned him comparisons to AB de Villiers — one of South Africa’s most innovative batters.
His breakthrough came during a school match where he scored a breathtaking double century, catching the attention of local media and scouts. By 17, Brevis had already made waves in South African U-19 cricket, displaying maturity well beyond his age.
During this time, AB de Villiers himself praised Brevis’s talent, acknowledging that the youngster reminded him of his younger self — fearless, creative, and hungry for runs.
U-19 World Cup 2022: The World Takes Notice
The 2022 ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup in the West Indies became Dewald Brevis’s global launchpad. Representing South Africa U-19, he not only topped the tournament’s run-scoring charts but also rewrote records.
- Runs Scored: 506 (the highest ever in a single U-19 World Cup)
- Batting Average: 84.33
- Centuries: 2
- Fifties: 3
His elegant yet aggressive batting style left fans and experts in awe. From wristy flicks to reverse sweeps, Brevis showcased a complete range of modern shots. What stood out most was his temperament — he built innings patiently before unleashing carnage on bowlers once settled.
By the end of the tournament, cricket fans had a new name to remember: Dewald Brevis — the Baby AB who could become something even more.
Rise Through T20 Leagues: IPL and Beyond
After the U-19 World Cup, Dewald Brevis’s stock skyrocketed. The Mumbai Indians — one of the most successful IPL franchises — secured his services in the 2022 Indian Premier League auction.
In his debut IPL season, Brevis turned heads with his fearless batting. His 49-run knock off just 25 balls against Punjab Kings showed glimpses of his immense potential. What truly stunned everyone was his ability to take on top-class bowlers like Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan, and Trent Boult without hesitation.
Fans immediately nicknamed him “Baby AB” on social media, solidifying his brand and appeal in India.
Outside the IPL, Brevis also showcased his skills in other leagues:
- SA20 (South Africa’s Premier T20 League) – Representing MI Cape Town.
- Caribbean Premier League (CPL) – Short stint to gain international experience.
- T20 Blast (England) – Continued exposure to different pitch conditions.
Each league added a new layer to his game — adaptability, game awareness, and shot innovation.
Record-Breaking Domestic Performances
In October 2022, Dewald Brevis produced one of the most astonishing innings in South African domestic cricket history. Playing for Titans, he smashed 162 runs off just 57 balls in a CSA T20 Challenge match — the highest T20 score ever recorded in South African domestic cricket.
That innings included:
- 13 fours
- 13 sixes
- Strike rate: 284.21
His performance drew immediate comparisons with global T20 legends like Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum. It also reaffirmed his reputation as a generational power-hitter capable of single-handedly changing games.
Batting Style and Technique
Brevis’s batting style is an artistic blend of timing, power, and innovation. Much like AB de Villiers, he utilizes:
- 360-degree hitting range
- Switch hits and scoops
- Explosive backfoot play
- Calmness under pressure
Yet, what differentiates him is his ability to read the game situation early. Despite his youth, Brevis shows maturity in pacing innings, adjusting his approach based on match conditions.
He’s also developing his leg-spin bowling, making him a potential all-round asset for South Africa.
Journey to South African National Team
In 2023, Brevis received his maiden call-up to the South African national T20 squad, marking a major milestone in his career. Though he didn’t play every match, his presence in the squad symbolized South Africa’s trust in his long-term potential.
Selectors and former players see Brevis as the future face of South African cricket — a player who can bridge the generational gap left by greats like AB de Villiers, Hashim Amla, and Faf du Plessis.
His dedication to continuous learning, especially from mentors like Kieron Pollard and Rohit Sharma during his IPL stint, has helped him mature rapidly both as a cricketer and a professional.
Quotes About Dewald Brevis
“He reminds me so much of AB. The confidence, the strokeplay — it’s all there.”
— Rohit Sharma, Mumbai Indians Captain
“He’s got something special. You can’t teach that kind of instinct.”
— Kieron Pollard
“The kid is fearless. That’s what modern cricket is about.”
— Graeme Smith, Former South African Captain
Challenges and Mental Resilience
Despite his rising fame, Brevis has faced his share of challenges — adapting to international-level bowling, handling media expectations, and managing workload as a teenager in global leagues.
He has openly spoken about learning to balance the mental aspects of the sport. Brevis emphasizes meditation, family support, and advice from senior cricketers to keep him grounded amid growing fame.
Global Appeal and Fan Following
Dewald Brevis’s popularity transcends South Africa. His performances in the IPL made him a global sensation, especially among Indian fans. His social media following surged, brands lined up for endorsements, and young fans began mimicking his batting stance.
He represents the new era of global cricketers — equally comfortable performing in Mumbai, Sydney, or Cape Town. His fanbase continues to grow as he evolves from a “promising youngster” to a consistent match-winner.
Read more: Glenn Maxwell’s Highest Score
Future Prospects: The Road Ahead
As South Africa rebuilds its cricketing legacy, Dewald Brevis is expected to be a cornerstone of that resurgence. Analysts believe he could lead the next generation of Proteas batting, carrying the mantle once held by legends like Kallis, Amla, and de Villiers.
If nurtured correctly, Brevis has the potential to:
- Dominate in all three formats.
- Become a global T20 superstar.
- Inspire the next generation of cricketers in South Africa.
His long-term goal, as he’s stated in interviews, is simple:
“I want to help South Africa win a World Cup. That’s my biggest dream.”
Sources
- ESPNcricinfo – Player Profile: Dewald Brevis
🔗 https://www.espncricinfo.com/
- Complete stats, match records, career highlights, and U-19 World Cup performance details.
- ICC (International Cricket Council)
🔗 https://www.icc-cricket.com/
- Official tournament data from the 2022 U-19 World Cup and rankings.
- Cricket South Africa (CSA)
🔗 https://cricket.co.za/
- Press releases, player announcements, and domestic records, including CSA T20 Challenge stats.
- Mumbai Indians Official Website
🔗 https://www.mumbaiindians.com/
- Team news, IPL insights, and interviews about Dewald Brevis’s journey with MI.
- The Guardian – Cricket Section
🔗 https://www.theguardian.com/sport/cricket
- Expert commentary and analysis on young global cricket stars, including Brevis
FAQ
Q1. Why is Dewald Brevis called “Baby AB”?
Because his batting style, shot range, and fearless approach closely resemble that of AB de Villiers, one of South Africa’s greatest batters.
Q2. What is Dewald Brevis’s highest score in T20 cricket?
His highest T20 score is 162 off 57 balls for the Titans in the CSA T20 Challenge — a record-breaking knock.
Q3. Which IPL team does Dewald Brevis play for?
He plays for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Q4. Has Dewald Brevis played for the South African senior team?
Yes, he made his debut for South Africa’s T20 International team in 2023.
Q5. What are Dewald Brevis’s strengths as a batsman?
His strengths include 360-degree hitting, innovative strokeplay, fearless batting under pressure, and adaptability across formats.
Q6. Who are Dewald Brevis’s role models?
His biggest inspirations are AB de Villiers, Rohit Sharma, and Kieron Pollard — all of whom influenced his development as a player.
Conclusion
Dewald Brevis’s story is not just about runs and records — it’s about passion, purpose, and perseverance. From schoolboy sensation to a global cricketing prodigy, his journey mirrors the dream of every young player who dares to believe.
As he continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the world hasn’t yet seen the best of Dewald Brevis. The “Baby AB” tag might have started his story — but the legend of Dewald Brevis is one he’s writing entirely on his own.
One thought on “Dewald Brevis Cricket Journey: From Schoolboy Sensation to South Africa’s Rising Star”