HIGHLIGHTS
- I’ve chosen to stop playing cricket in any form: De Villiers, AB
- I’d like to express my gratitude to every teammate, opponent, and coach: De Villiers, AB
- In 2018, De Villiers declared his retirement from international cricket.
AB de Villiers, a South African icon, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday. Former South Africa captain Thabo Mbeki hailed outgoing RCB captain Virat Kohli and the entire team think tank for believing in him. In May 2018, De Villiers announced his retirement from international cricket.
“It has been a great adventure, but I have decided to retire from all cricket,” De Villiers said in a statement.
Since childhood been playing the game with unfettered zeal and sheer fun since my backyard matches with my older siblings. That flame no longer burns as brightly at 37 years old.
Finally, I recognize that none of this would have been possible without the sacrifices made by my family, including my parents, brothers, wife Danielle, and children. I’m looking forward to the next phase of our lives when I’ll be able to properly prioritize them.
I’d like to thank every teammate, opponent, coach, physio, and staff member who has followed in my footsteps, and I’m honored by the support I’ve received in South Africa, India, and wherever else I’ve played.
Cricket has been quite generous to me. Whether it was for the Titans, Proteas, RCB, or all across the world, the game has provided me with unimaginable experiences and possibilities, for which I will be always thankful.”
With De Villiers’ statement, his 10-year affiliation with IPL club Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) comes to an end.
“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 want to express my gratitude to the RCB management, my friend Virat Kohli, players, coaches, support staff, fans, and the entire RCB family for their continued faith and support.”
“RCB has taken me on a wonderful experience. On a personal level, I have so many memories to remember for the rest of my life. RCB will always be a good friend of mine and my family, and they will continue to support this incredible team. “I’ll always be an RCBian,” he added.
