'Maybe he was underused throughout the last IPL' – AB de Villiers on Liam Livingstone ahead of IPL 2027

Liam Livingstone has moved to Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2027 following a trade from Sunrisers Hyderabad. The English batter featured in just two matches for SRH during the 2026 season, accumulating 15 runs in a campaign that saw him struggle to find regular opportunities. His transfer to CSK marks another chapter in a career that has already taken him through four IPL franchises.

South African batting legend AB de Villiers has offered his perspective on Livingstone's situation at his former team and the challenges ahead at his new franchise. De Villiers acknowledged that Livingstone's time at SRH was marked by limited game time, a factor he believes may have hindered the batter's performance.

"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," de Villiers said on his YouTube channel.

Why does Livingstone need to adapt quickly at CSK?

De Villiers emphasised the importance of clarity in role and preparation for Livingstone at CSK. The batter's aggressive approach will need to be matched with a clear understanding of what the franchise expects from him in the middle order.

"Livingstone is quite an aggressive player, so it depends on what kind of role he is given at CSK. Any wicket can suit any batter if your role is clear and you prepare accordingly; use your experience; anyone can adapt. The Chepauk is not always spin-friendly. I have played many games there where the seamers were tricky to face. The challenge for Livingstone will be not to have predetermined ideas about the stadium and feel like spin will get all over him. Just have a clear mind and play what you see," he added.

Livingstone's IPL career spans 51 matches across four franchises, during which he has accumulated 1066 runs at an average of 25.38 and a strike rate of 155.16. He has registered seven half-centuries in the competition, demonstrating his ability to build innings when given the opportunity. His journey through Sunrisers Hyderabad, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals has seen varying levels of success and game time.

What does RCB need ahead of IPL 2027?

De Villiers also shared his thoughts on RCB's squad planning for the upcoming season. Following back-to-back IPL titles in 2025 and 2026, the franchise faces the challenge of maintaining their winning momentum while addressing any potential gaps in their squad, which de Villiers believed would be a backup for Josh Hazlewood and a backup wrist-spinner.

"After winning back-to-back titles, it is a tough shout. There is always room for improvement. RCB's target should be Brevis. I hope they have him if he is available. But there is not much wrong with the balance at the moment. I would only think of a backup seamer if Hazlewood gets injured. Maybe a backup wrist-spinner. If anything, look for another power-hitter if someone loses form in those middle overs," de Villiers explained.