Anil Kumble calls AB de Villiers a 'true legend'

If one is asked to name a modern-day cricketer who was loved all over the world, irrespective of the country his fans hailed from, it’d have to be AB de Villiers. A prolific batsman, an exceptional fielder and a true gentleman of the game, ABD announced his decision to retire from international Cricket on Wednesday (May 23). Amongst the innumerable messages that poured in for the star cricketer, Anil Kumble also had some kind words to offer.

34-year-old ABD’s announcement took the entire world by surprise as many had expected him to play for South Africa in the upcoming 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. However, he chose to convey the decision of his retirement via a video message on the micro-blogging platform, Twitter. He currently holds the second position in the ICC ODI batting rankings.

AB de Villiers leaves the world heartbroken

Having played 114 Test matches, 228 ODIs and 78 T20 Internationals, de Villiers had amassed over 20,000 international runs and his batting is revered all over the world, no matter the format. His recent performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) were proof enough of the calibre of player that the man is.

A steady stream of wishes poured in for ABD as soon as he announced his retirement. Several veteran cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Mark Boucher and VVS Laxman took to Twitter to bid him adieu and respected Indian spinner, Anil Kumble also showered praise on de Villiers. Calling him “a true legend”, Kumble termed him as “one of the greatest to have come from South Africa.”

Here’s what Anil Kumble tweeted:

An inspiration to millions, and one of the greatest to have come from South Africa. @ABdeVilliers17 retired a true legend!

— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) May 23, 2018

In his message to the world, ABD thanked his supporters and expressed his gratitude at having been able to represent his nation. He further explained that he has no intentions to play overseas but will continue to play for the Titans in domestic Cricket. The star batsman also added that he’ll “continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas.”

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