Picture Credit: Twitter
South African batting great AB de Villiers has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. The versatile player had retired from international cricket in May 2018, but played in franchise T20 competitions around the globe. ABD played in 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for the Proteas.
In his statement, De Villiers wrote, “It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket. I would like to thank every teammate, every opponent, every coach, every physio and every staff member who has travelled the same path, and I am humbled by the support I have received in South Africa, in India, wherever I have played."
"Ever since the backyard matches with my older brothers, I have played the game with pure enjoyment and unbridled enthusiasm. Now, at the age of 37, that flame no longer burns so brightly. Last, I am aware that nothing would have been possible without the sacrifices made by my family – my parents, my brothers, my wife Danielle and my children. I look forward to the next chapter of our lives when I can truly put them first."
"Cricket has been exceptionally kind to me. Whether playing for the Titans, or the Proteas, or RCB, or around the world, the game has given me unimagined experiences and opportunities. I will always be grateful,” ABD concluded.
Most recently, AB de Villiers represented the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL 2021 Playoffs. He played 156 matches for RCB and scored 4,491 runs. He is the second all-time leading run-scorer for RCB behind Virat Kohli.