De Villiers de parts international game

SOUTH AFRICA’S AB De Villiers, one of the most explosive and thrilling batsmen of a generation, has announced his retirement from international cricket.

The 34-year-old former Proteas skipper has been a star of the team for over a decade and will go down in history as one of their greatest and most watchable batters.

De Villiers retires with a batting average north of 50 in Test, ODI and List A cricket, though the decision was a surprise to many as it comes just a year shy of next summer’s World Cup.

“Fourteen seasons ago, I arrived as a nervous youngster,” De Villiers said.

“Today, I’ve retired from all international cricket with immediate effect. After 114 Test matches, 228 ODIs and 78 T20 internationals, it is time for others to take over. I’ve had my turn and to be honest, I’m tired.”