Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL
The cricket fraternity were left in shock on Friday as one of the greatest cricketers of modern era - AB de Villiers - announced retirement from all forms of cricket. The news came at a time when the fans were speculating if Royal Challengers Bangalore will retain him for the next season or not. However, the 37-year-old has put an end to all the mystery as he called it quits on his illustrious cricket career.
"It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket. Ever since the back yard 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," the cricketer announced on Twitter as the phenomenal ABD era came to an end.
AB de Villiers - One of the most beloved cricketers in India
The former South African captain played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for the national side, scoring close to 20,000 runs in international cricket. While he had some phenomenal records to his name, it was his services for RCB in Indian Premier League which made him one of the most beloved cricketers in India.
The right-handed batsman joined the Bangalore franchise in 2011 and since then, he has been ruling the hearts of Indian cricket fans. It is no secret that fans in India love and adore ABD, way beyond he can even imagine. Although he played some magical knocks for the side throughout his IPL career, but it was his comradery with Virat Kohli which got a special place in everyone's hearts.
Kohli and ABD - The duo that ruled IPL
The legendary duo always had immense respect for each other both on and off the field and their bromance was probably one of the best-ever things that IPL gave to fans. And as expected, the former RCB captain expressed his love for his teammate, with whom he has shared some breathtaking partnerships between the wickets on numerous occasions.
"To the best player of our times and the most inspirational person I've met, you can be very proud of what you've done and what you've given to RCB my brother. Our bond is beyond the game and will always be," Kohli stated in a heartfelt tweet.
Love u too my brother: ABD to Kohli
It was indeed an emotional moment for so many cricket lovers and even someone like Virat Kohli, who has spent almost a decade with ABD playing for RCB. In his tweet, King Kohli added that ABD's decision to hang up his boots hurts his heart but he respects it. While posting emojis of broken hearts, he stated, "I love you" to which AB de Villiers also replied, "Love u too my brother."
Although an era ends, fans would be hoping to see the bromance between these two legends continue for years to come. Kohli and ABD - A cricket love story which will go down in history books as the most beloved ones on the field. Thank you for all the memories!