Sun May 18 11:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text about Shashank Singh and his encounter with AB de Villiers:

**Punjab Kings’ Shashank Singh Recalls Fanboy Moment with AB de Villiers, Shares Throwback Photo**

**Mumbai, India -** Punjab Kings’ hard-hitting batsman Shashank Singh recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about his encounter with South African cricketing legend AB de Villiers during the 2016 T20 World Cup. The revelation came during a conversation with de Villiers on the latter’s YouTube channel, ‘AB de Villiers 360.’

Singh surprised de Villiers by producing an old photograph of them together from that time. He recounted how he had met ‘Mr. 360’ in Mumbai when the South African team was there for the T20 World Cup and played a practice match against Singh’s team.

“Do you remember this photo?” Singh asked de Villiers. “You came to Mumbai…You were there for the T20 World Cup, and you played a practice match with our team.”

Singh further shared that he scored 20 runs off 12 balls in that match, ultimately getting dismissed by Kagiso Rabada. More importantly, he managed to get de Villiers to sign his T-shirt, a treasured memory he still holds dear. “That day, I got your signed T-shirt. Today, it’s a fan moment for me. I feel very lucky,” Singh said.

De Villiers responded with admiration for Singh’s perseverance. “I really appreciate you. This journey was not easy, but you didn’t stop. I like people who never give up in life. Today, we are celebrating together. I wish you all the best for the remaining IPL season and the rest of your life.” De Villiers added that he would now be following Singh’s career and watching his matches.

Shashank Singh has been a valuable asset in the IPL. In 35 matches, he has amassed 637 runs at an average of 39.81 and a strike rate of 154.61, including three half-centuries. In the current season, he has scored 214 runs in 11 matches for Punjab Kings, averaging 53.50 with a strike rate of 142.66 and one half-century. His story serves as an inspiration, showcasing how a fanboy moment can evolve into a shared platform with a sporting hero.

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