Dewald Brevis, 'Baby AB', Ignites CSK with Record-Breaking Batting and a Steady Romance

Key facts

• Dewald Brevis signed with Chennai Super Kings in 2025 as an injury replacement for Rs 2.2 crore.
• He scored 225 runs in his first 6 matches for CSK.
• Brevis holds South Africa's record for the fastest T20I fifty, off 22 balls.
• His career-best T20 score is 125 runs off 56 balls.
• Brevis has been in a relationship with Linda Maree since they met as teenagers.
• Linda Maree is a professional model and digital content creator with a significant following.
• The couple faced split rumors in 2023 but were seen together during holidays, confirming they are still together as of 2026.

A Prodigy's Arrival in Chennai

Dewald Brevis, the South African batter widely known as 'Baby AB' for his resemblance to AB de Villiers, has become the talk of the IPL after joining the Chennai Super Kings. The five-time champions signed him in 2025 as an injury replacement for Rs 2.2 crore, and he immediately made an impact with 225 runs in his first six matches. His explosive batting, featuring signature no-look sixes and a massive strike rate, has drawn comparisons to his idol and cemented his status as cricket's next big icon.

Record-Breaking Feats in T20 Cricket

Brevis already holds the record for South Africa's fastest T20I fifty, reaching the milestone in just 22 balls. His career-best knock of 125 runs off 56 balls remains a highlight of his young career. These performances have created a buzz around the cricketing world, with fans and analysts alike watching his every move.

A Love Story That Began in Teenage Years

Off the field, Brevis has found stability in his relationship with Linda Maree, whom he met as a teenager. What began as a friendship gradually turned into a romance, and Maree has been a constant support throughout his journey from domestic cricket to the IPL. She is a successful professional model and digital content creator, having built a significant independent following through collaborations with fashion brands.

Navigating Public Scrutiny and Rumors

The couple faced speculation of a split in 2023 after changes to their social media activity. However, they silenced the rumors by appearing together during holidays, demonstrating their commitment. As of 2026, Brevis and Maree remain together but keep their private life relatively guarded, successfully navigating the intense spotlight that comes with a high-profile international career.

The Road Ahead for 'Baby AB'

Brevis's personal and professional journeys both show immense promise. With his record-breaking batting and a supportive partner by his side, he is poised to become a central figure in world cricket. The coming seasons will reveal whether he can sustain his explosive form and lead his teams to further glory.

The bottom line

• Dewald Brevis, signed by CSK for Rs 2.2 crore as an injury replacement, has already scored 225 runs in his first six IPL matches.
• He holds South Africa's record for the fastest T20I fifty (22 balls) and has a career-best T20 score of 125 off 56 balls.
• Brevis's relationship with model and content creator Linda Maree began in their teens and has endured despite public scrutiny and split rumors in 2023.
• The couple remains together as of 2026, maintaining a guarded private life while managing the pressures of a high-profile sports career.
• Brevis's signature no-look sixes and high strike rate mark him as a potential future icon of cricket.