South African star performer AB de Villiers announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on November 19, 2021. ABD, widely known as Mr. 360 degree ended his 17 years cricket career where he played 114 tests, 228 ODIs, and 78 T20Is for South Africa.
AB De Villiers Announces Retirement
The aggressive South African batsman made his debut in a Test match on December 17, 2004, where he played against England at St George’s Park, Port Elizabeth.
ABD played his last international match in April 2018 — a Test against Australia in Johannesburg. His last ODI game for South Africa was against India at Centurion on February 16, 2018, while he last turned up for his country in the shortest format on October 29, 2017.
| Test Debut | South Africa v England at St George’s Park, Port Elizabeth, December 17, 2004 |
| Last Test | South Africa vs Australia at Johannesburg – March 30 – April 03, 2018 |
| ODI Debut | South Africa v England at Springbok Park, Bloemfontein, February 2, 2005 |
| Last ODI | South Africa v India at Centurion Park, Centurion, February 16, 2018 |
| T20 Debut | South Africa v Australia at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg, February 24, 2006 |
| Last T20 | South Africa v Bangladesh at North West Cricket Stadium, Potchefstroom, October 29, 2017 |
In a statement released, De Villiers 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,” the South African said.
“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. 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.”
“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.
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,” said the de Villiers.
ABD will not play in IPL 2022
De Villiers’ announcement means he effectively ends his association with IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The decorated South Africa batsman, who began his RCB career in 2011, enjoyed 10 seasons, being a crucial part of 5 Playoff runs in his time.
Speaking about this decision, AB 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.”
“I’m going to be an RCBian for life. Every single person in the RCB set-up has become family to me. People come & go, but the spirit & the love we have for each other at RCB will always remain. I’ve become half Indian now & I’m proud of that.” – @ABdeVilliers17 #ThankYouAB pic.twitter.com/5b6RUYfjDY
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) November 19, 2021
“It has been a memorable journey with RCB. Have so many memories on the personal front to cherish for a 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
AB de Villiers has played 156 matches for RCB and scored 4,491 runs. He is the second all-time leading run-scorer behind Virat Kohli and holds the second and third-highest individual run total in RCB history with 133* against Mumbai Indians (in 2015) and 129* against Gujarat Lions (in 2016).
De Villiers has played 114 Tests and scored 8,765 runs at an average of 50.66. He has also taken two Test wickets. His highest score was 278 not out and also has 22 centuries against his name.
De Villiers has played 228 ODIs and scored 9577 runs at an impressive average of 53.50. His highest score in ODIs was 176 at a strike rate of 101.09. He has scored 25 centuries in ODIs.
In 78 T20 internationals, he has scored 1672 runs at an average of 26.12. He made his T20 international debut in 2006 against Australia.
