Cricket fraternity reacts on the shocking retirement of AB de Villiers

AB de Villiers announces his retirement

Sabyasachi Bagchi:  AB de Villiers, one of the modern greats, has retired from all forms of international cricket on Wednesday. The South African star posted a video on his Twitter account to announce the news.

AB said, “I’ve had my turn and, to be honest, I’m tired. This is a tough decision. I’ve thought long and hard about it and I’d like to retire. Despite playing decent cricket. It would not be right for me to pick and choose where, when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in green and gold, it must be everything or nothing.”

He played 114 tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for his country. The legend from South Africa holds several batting records, including the fastest 50, 100 and 150 in world cricket.

Former Indian cricketer Bishan Singh Bedi talked with xtratime.in saying  “In our country, no one can think to leave cricket at the age of 34! He could still play in limited-overs cricket for 4-5 years with his fitness. ”




Bedi, legendary spinner of Indian cricket also don’t have any clue to restrict the South African batting star as he said, “It’s not easy to restrict him and I don’t have any idea to do so.”

“All the bowlers can have a peaceful sleep after the announcement as AB will not take a stance with the bat in front of them.” Later he added.




Another former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan also reacted about the incident as he said, “I was shocked hearing the news. It’s impossible to believe that AB retired before the World Cup. He dominated the cricketing world for 14 years. I will miss him.”



The legend himself announced he will play for his national team in the 2019 World Cup after South Africa lost in the Semi Final against New Zealand in 2015 World Cup. In the press conference, he said, “I will play in the next World Cup and you will see a new South Africa side. I will play as I want to remove the stamp of Chokes.”

AB decided to hang his kitbag just before the World Cup.