AB de Villiers says goodbye to all forms of cricket. South African legend AB De Villiers announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday, bringing an end to a remarkable career. The 37-year-old announced his retirement on Twitter, after a 17-year career in which he represented the Proteas in 114 Tests, 228 ODIs, and 78 T20Is.
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In a statement released, De Villiers said: “It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket.
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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.
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.
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, and I will always be grateful.”
De Villiers' statement effectively ends his association with the Royal Challengers Bangalore team in the Indian Premier League (RCB). The accomplished South African batsman began his RCB career in 2011 and played a key role in five Playoff runs during that time.
“I have enjoyed a long and good time playing with RCB," AB de Villiers said of his decision. Eleven years have flown by, and saying goodbye to the lads is heartbreaking. Of course, it took a long time for me to make this decision, but after much thought, I've decided to hang up my boots and spend more time with my family. I'd like to express my gratitude to the RCB management, my friend Virat Kohli, my teammates, coaches, and support staff, fans, and the entire RCB family for showing faith and supporting me all through these years.”
He further continued “I’m going to be an RCBian for life. Every single person in the RCB set-up has become family to me. People come & go, but the spirit & the love we have for each other at RCB will always remain. I’ve become half Indian now & I’m proud of that.”
AB de Villiers has scored 4,491 runs in 156 games for RCB. He is the second-highest individual run scorer in RCB history behind Virat Kohli, with 133* against Mumbai Indians (in 2015) and 129* against Gujarat Lions (in 2016).