T20 World Cup | Brevis looks to carve his own identity

When Dewald Brevis had his first brush with fame by virtue of topping the run-scoring list in the 2022 Under-19 World Cup, the moniker of ‘Baby AB’ seemed a natural fit for the South African. A 360° repertoire of strokes and razor-sharp reflexes on the field were striking similarities between the youngster from Johannesburg and A.B. de Villiers.

The sky-high expectations may have done a disservice as Brevis wasn’t immune to the roller-coaster of life. However, the penny seemed to drop in 2025 when an unexpected opportunity for Chennai Super Kings midway through the IPL, as a replacement for injured pacer Gurjapneet Singh, knocked on the door.

He made an instant impact with his clean striking for the yellow brigade, and subsequently earned his Test and ODI debuts as well a recall into South Africa’s T20I set-up.

Back in the sub-continent for his maiden T20 World Cup, the 22-year-old, described as South Africa’s X-factor by consultant Albie Morkel, is at ease in his own skin.

“It’s always been a big privilege for me to be compared with AB. But I’ve never felt a drop of pressure with that. And yeah, I really enjoy being here,” Brevis told the media after his 25-ball 36 against the UAE at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

How has the IPL experience helped? “In the IPL, I feel the wickets are a bit flatter to be honest,” he said. “I’ve grown to be the player I’ve become. It’s totally Dewald’s journey.”

Up next for South Africa is a joust against India in the Super Eight Stage on Sunday. Asked how he would look to tackle the mystery spin of Varun Chakaravarthy, Brevis’ response reflected his uncluttered mind.

“He’s a spin bowler. So I will play him like a spinner and watch the ball and react,” was his matter-of-fact reply.