Xtra Time Web Desk: India’s test and ODI captain Virat Kohli led the cricket fraternity in paying tribute to AB de Villiers, who announced his retirement from all formats of cricket on Friday. De Villiers decided to call time on his participation in all T20 leagues across the world. This follows his retirement from international cricket in May of 2018.
In a statement released on his social media platforms, he said:
“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. 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.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
De Villiers bows out of the game as one of South Africa’s most prolific talents.
At 37 years of age, the icon ends his career with 9 424 T20 runs at a strike rate of 150.13 in 320 innings. He was not out 67 times, with four centuries, 69 fifties and a high score of 133 not-out. He also took 230 catches and has claim of 18 stumpings.
This is how the cricket fraternity reacted to AB de Villiers’ decision: