South Africa's AB de Villiers has no regrets over retirement

Sport360 staff 14:14 15/08/2018
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  • The South African retired from international cricket in May this year.

    AB de Villiers says he has absolutely no regrets over calling time on his international career.

    In what came as a shock move, the South Africa batsman announced he was retiring from all forms of international cricket in May this year.

    Speaking to the Independent, the 34-year-old spoke about the ‘unbearable’ pressure which led him to seek retirement.

    “I know the right answer is probably to say I will always miss the game, but I truly believe that players who tell you they don’t feel the pressure of international cricket – being away from home for months at a time – are lying to everyone and themselves,” the South African said.

    “It’s been unbearable at times; the pressure you have to face, performing day in and day out. The expectations that you put on yourself, from fans, from the country, from coaches.

    ABD's retirement move had shocked many.

    ABD’s retirement move had shocked many.

    “It is huge, and it’s something that’s on your mind all the time as a cricketer. It’s definitely something that I’m not going to miss. I’m very happy to have stepped away. Absolutely no regrets.”

    The right-hander enjoyed a stellar 15-year international career in which he scored 8,675 runs in 114 Tests at an average of 50.66 along with the help of 22 tons. His ODI record is equally impressive, if not more, with 9,577 runs in 228 matches at an average of 53.50.

    The South African continues to participate in franchise T20 leagues such as the IPL. On Tuesday, he was announced as the global ambassador for the inaugural UAE T20x league which will get underway in January next year.

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