Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi, Nov 19: Former South African batter AB de Villiers on Friday announced his retirement from all the forms of Cricket.
The 37-year-old made the announcement of retirement on Twitter, ending a 17-year career, which saw him play in 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for South Africa. The former South African batter featured in 340 T20 games for different teams across the globe.
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. pic.twitter.com/W1Z41wFeli
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) November 19, 2021
The South African legend has been playing franchise cricket and was a key member in Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and he featured 184 IPL games.
In a statement released by RCB, De Villiers thanked outgoing franchise skipper Virat Kohli and the entire RCB team management for showing confidence in him.
Speaking about this decision, AB de Villiers said, “I have had a long and fruitful time playing for RCB. Eleven years have just whizzed by and leaving the boys is extremely bittersweet. Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time, but after a lot of contemplation, I’ve decided to hang up my boots and spend quality time with my family. I would like to thank the RCB management, my friend Virat Kohli teammates, coaches, support staff, fans, and the entire RCB family for showing faith and supporting me all through these years.”
“It has been a memorable journey with RCB. Have so many memories on the personal front to cherish for a lifetime. RCB will always be very close to me and my family and will continue to support this amazing team. I am a RCBian forever,” he added
“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.” – @ABdeVilliers17 #ThankYouAB pic.twitter.com/5b6RUYfjDY
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) November 19, 2021
Notably, De Villiers last game in the limited overs format for South Africa came on February 16, 2018, against India.
