AB de Villiers retires from all forms of cricket

AB de Villiers has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday, closing the curtains on a storied career. The South African announced his decision with a statement posted on his social media, ending his 17-year playing career as well as his 10-year long stint with IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore, for who he last played for during IPL 2021 in the UAE.

“It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket,” said de Villiers in his statement. “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.”

The former South African captain and batter retired from international cricket in 2018 – after playing 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20I’s for the Proteas – but continued to play franchise T20 cricket around the world, most notably for RCB in the IPL.

With 5162 runs in 184 matches, de Villiers is the 6^th highest run-scorer in IPL history and the 2^nd highest for RCB, behind Virat Kohli. Over his 10-year spell, de Villiers played an integral part of an RCB team that made five playoff runs and two trips to the IPL final, and the South African holds the record for two of the top five highest scores in IPL history.

In a statement released by RCB, de Villiers said “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. 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.