AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket; quits IPL
Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on November 19 (Friday). The talismanic batter, who retired from international cricket in 2018, continued to ply his trade in T20 Leagues across the globe and was a key member of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the IPL.
He ends his association his 11 years association with the RCB. AB de Villiers ends his career with 4491 runs in 156 matches for RCB, finishing as the second highest run-getter for the team behind Virat Kohli. The former South Africa batsman, who represented Delhi Daredevils before joining RCB, has finished his IPL career as the sixth highest run-getter with 5162 runs in 184 matches, with a best of 133* against Mumbai Indians in 2015.
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. pic.twitter.com/W1Z41wFeli
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) November 19, 2021
The 37-year-old AB de Villiers admitted that it was a tough decision to make; however, he prioritise to spend time with his family.
“I have had a long and fruitful time playing for RCB. Eleven years have just whizzed by and leaving the boys is extremely bittersweet. Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time, but after a lot of contemplation, I’ve decided to hang up my boots and spend quality time with my family,” said De Villiers in a statement.
“I would like to thank the RCB management, my friend Virat Kohli, teammates, coaches, support staff, fans, and the entire RCB family for showing faith and supporting me all through these years. It has been a memorable journey with RCB. Have so many memories on the personal front to cherish for the lifetime. RCB will always be very close to me and my family and will continue to support this amazing team. I am a RCBian forever,” he added.
Apart from playing in the IPL, AB de Villiers has also represented Barbados Tridents, Brisbane Heat, Lahore Qalandars, Middlesex, Rangpur Riders, South Africans, Titans and Tshwane Spartans in T20 cricket.
