AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket

Johannesburg, Nov 19 (PTI): One of contemporary cricket’s greatest batters, South African legend AB de Villiers on Friday announced his retirement from all forms of the game, which he dominated for 17 years with his 360 degree batting.
The 37-year-old versatile cricketer’s decision has effectively ended his association with his IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore.
He made the announcement on Twitter, ending an illustrious career, which saw him play in 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for the Proteas.
In a statement released, De Villiers said: “It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket.
“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.” The former South Africa captain and batting mainstay had retired from international cricket in 2018. “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.
“That’s the reality I must accept – and, even if it may seem sudden, that is why I am making this announcement today. I’ve had my time,” de Villiers added.

Best player of our times: Kohli hails de Villiers

Johannesburg, Nov 19 (PTI): Tributes poured in for AB de Villiers after the South African batter on Friday announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, with Indian maestro Virat Kohli aptly summing up his greatness by calling him the “best player of our times”.
One of contemporary cricket’s greatest batters, de Villiers has brought an end to his glorious 17-year career in top-flight, stating the flame within “doesn’t burn so brightly” anymore.
India’s Test and ODI captain Kohli, who has shared the Royal Challengers Bangalore dressing room with de Villiers since 2011, has always been an ardent admirer of the versatile South African cricketer.
“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 tweeted.
“This hurts my heart but I know you’ve made the best decision for yourself and your family like you’ve always done. I love you,” he added.
The 37-year-old de Villiers made the announcement on Twitter, ending an illustrious career, which saw him play 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for the Proteas besides representing various franchises in T20 leagues across the world. He walks into sunset after dominating the game for nearly two decades with his 360 degree batting.
“The best I’ve ever seen, and someone who I’ve always looked up to! Took the game to another level singlehandedly mr360,” said England’s wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings.
Billings’ compatriot Jason Roy wrote, “What a player and what a man. Absolute genius and an even better human. Thanks for what you did for the game!”
Seasoned India opener Shikhar Dhawan said, “Your contribution to cricket has been immense. A true legend of this beautiful game and a wonderful athlete. Good luck for whatever the future has in store for you.”
Former India batter VVS Laxman wrote, “Congratulations on a fabulous career. One of the true modern day greats and an inspiration for so many. Wish you the very best in your second innings.”
Former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene said, “Congratulations on a fabulous career.. brilliant guy on and off the field. Wishing you all the very best in your future. Pure class.”