Cricket fans all over the world went into a shock when AB de Villiers announced his retirement from international cricket on May 23 through a video on his Twitter account. The video spread like a wildfire on social media. Cricketers and fans from all over the world started sharing goodbye messages. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli wrote an emotional message for AB de Villiers on Twitter.
I’ve made a big decision today pic.twitter.com/In0jyquPOK
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 23, 2018
“This is the high performance centre in Pretoria where 14 seasons ago I arrived as a nervous youngster when I was first called into the Proteas squad. Today at the same place, I want to let you know that I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect. After 114 Test matches, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is, it is time for others to take over. I have had my turn and to be honest, I am tired. This is a tough decision, I thought long and hard about it and I would like to retire while still playing decent cricket. After the fantastic series against India and Australia, now feels the right time to step aside. It would not be right for me to pick and choose where and when and in what format I play for the Proteas.
For me, in green and gold, it must be everything or nothing. I will always be grateful to my teammates, the coaches and the staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years. It is not about earning more somewhere else, it is about running out of gas and feeling it is time to move on. Everything comes to an end and to cricket fans in South Africa and around the world, thank you very much for your kindness, generosity and your understanding. I have no plans to play overseas, in fact, I hope I can continue to be available for the Titans in domestic cricket. I will continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas,” de Villiers said in his retirement address.
Here is what Virat Kohli wrote for ‘Brother’ AB de Villiers on Twitter:
“Wish you all the best in everything that you do my brother. You’ve changed the way batting was seen in the time you’ve played international cricket. My best wishes to you and your family for this amazing journey ahead 😃👍 @ABdeVilliers17”
This Is How His Former Teammates And Other International Cricketers Bid Him Adieu
1. Sachin Tendulkar
“Like your on-field game, may you have 360-degree success off the field as well. You will definitely be missed, @ABdeVilliers17. My best wishes to you,”.
2. ABD’s Former Teammate And Captain Jacques Kallis
“Congrats on an awesome career @ABdeVilliers17 Enjoy retirement and the extra time with your family. Was a pleasure watching you as a youngster and then becoming one of the best in the world,”.
3. Former South African Wicket-Keeper Mark Boucher
“I remember this young guy on his 1st day out for Proteas… What an inspiration, person, and player he turned out to be. Thank you for everything you have done and been for your country, teammates, and fans @ABdeVilliers17 #legend,”.
