On Tuesday (October 16), India’s cricket superstar Virat Kohli paid tribute to his close friend and former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate, AB de Villiers, following the latter’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame.

AB de Villiers inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

South African cricket legend De Villiers has been honored with induction into the ICC Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024, joining esteemed cricketers Sir Alastair Cook and Neetu David. De Villiers, affectionately known as “Mr. 360,” enjoyed a stellar 14-year international career, amassing over 20,000 runs across all formats and setting records for the fastest fifty, century, and 150 in One Day Internationals (ODIs). His remarkable ability to adapt to any situation and perform under pressure made him one of the most destructive batters in cricket history.

Celebrated for his extraordinary talent, De Villiers has left a signifi??cant impact on the game, earning admiration from players and fans alike. His contributions to the sport are?? not only recognized through his records but also through the lasting influence he has had on the players who followed in his footsteps. The induction into the Hall of Fame is a testament to his exceptional career and the legacy he has created in the cricketing world.

The unique bond between two cricketing giants: Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers

Kohli and De Villiers have cultivated a profound friendship rooted in shared experiences, mutual respect, and an unwavering passion for the game. In his tribute for the ICC, Kohli expressed his deep admiration for De Villiers through a heartfelt open letter – a cherished tradition for Hall of Fame inductees. This personal note not only reflects their close bond but also highlights the incredible impact De Villiers has had on Kohli’s career and the cricketing community as a whole, emphasizing the respect and admiration that transcends their nationalities.

Also READ: AB de Villiers spills beans on the specu??lations ??of Rohit Sharma moving to RCB ahead of IPL 2025

Kohli’s open letter: A personal celebration of excellence

In his poignant open letter, Koh??li addressed de Villiers directly, stating:

“To AB, it is an honour to be selected to write these words as you enter the ICC Hall of Fame. You are thoroughly deserving of your place â€?after all, the Hall of Fame is a representation of your impact on the game, and yours has been truly unique.”

He went on to highlight de Villiers’ extraordinary talent, exclaiming,

“People have always spoken about your ability, and rightly so. You are the most talented cricketer I have played with, the absolute number one.”

• Highlighting De Villiers’ Unmatched Confidence on the Field

Kohli reflected on the unique confidence de Villiers e??xuded in his game, emphasizing,

“But what truly stood out to me was your belief in that ability. You had a crazy amount of belief that you could execute whatever you wanted to on a cricket field, and you normally did. That is why you ended up being so special.”

• Recalling Memorable Matches: A Glimpse into Their Partnership

Kohli recounte??d a defining moment from their time together during a thrilling match in 2016, where de Villiers demonstrated his extraordinary skill and in??stinct:

“There is no better example in my mind than when we were batting together for RCB in Kolkata in 2016. We were chasing 184 against an attack including Sunil Narine, Morne Morkel, Andre Russell, and Shakib Al Hasan. You came in to join me with around 70 on the board and Narine was bowling. You played and missed a couple and told me during a timeout that you weren’t picking him too well.”

Kohli added:

“I felt I was, so I remember telling you to give me the strike and I would try and hit boundaries off him. In the first over Narine bowled after the timeout, I was ready at the non-striker’s end thinking you were definitely giving me a single. So, imagine my surprise when you back away to the leg side, Sunil follows you, and you slog swept him over square leg for a 94-metre six!”

Kohli concluded this anecdote with:

“I don’t know what happened in the timeout to give you the belief you could do that. I just remember saying to you, ‘You’re a freak!'”

• An Unspoken Understanding: Running Between Wickets

Kohli praised their unspoken understanding during ma?tches, particularly their seamless running between the wickets:

“When we ran between the wickets, for example, we never called for runs. It’s a very difficult thing to explain practically, but there is a feeling to it. There was a complete understanding of where the ball was going, and nothing needed to be said. Fielders were always under pressure when we were batting. I don’t ever remember missing a two with you or being in a position to be run out,” T??his exemplified the synergy they shared ?as teammates.

• Emphasizing the Champion Mindset: Adapting to Match Situations

Kohli commended de Villiers’ adaptability and mental fortitude, sharing a specific Test match anecdote that illustrated his unwavering focus and dedication:

Through my time playing with and against you, you always had a very clear understanding of how the game should be played, and you never really veered from that, regardless of whether you were doing well or not. Your drive to want to be the guy to win the game for your team was tremendous and something I learned a lot from…” Kohli highlighted how de Villiers’ mindset was central to his success.

• Legacy of excellence: A masterful Test knock against India

Kohli highlighted de Villiers’ ability to adapt to different match situations, mentioning a Test match in Delhi in 2015 where de Villiers faced 297 balls for 43 runs:

“There must have been a temptation at some stage to think, ‘I’ve faced 200 balls, I need to hit a boundary.’ But once you locked yourself into what the situation required, you just kept going on and on.”

He concluded with:

“It all comes back to that belief in your ability. It wasn’t just about the crazy, extravagant shots. You had the ability to defend the ball and had belief in that defence. To play that way because South Africa needed you to do so is a classic example of the team player you were.”

• The Essence of De Villiers’ Game: More Than Just Statistics

Kohli poignantly remarked that de Villiers’ impact on cricket transcended mere statistics, stating:

“A lot of players can have impressive numbers, but very few have an impact on the psyche of those watching. For me, that is the highest value you can have as a cricketer, and that is what makes you so special.”

• Concluding with a Celebration of Legacy: The Hall of Fame Induction

Kohli, in the end, celebrated de Villiers’ well-deserved induction into the Hall of Fame, expressing heartfelt congratulations:

“You are in the Hall of Fame for the impact you have left on the game, and I don’t think there is anything more special for a cricketer than to have that honour. Congratulations, biscotti. You are one of the greatest players to ever play the game.”

Also READ: Michael Vaughan reveals his all tim??e IPL XI; no place for AB de Villiers, Suni??l Narine

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Former England captain and renowned cricket analyst Michael Vaughan recently unveiled his all-time Indian Premier League (IPL) XI during an interview with Cricket.com. Vaughan’s squad is a well-assembled unit, consisting of some of the finest cricketers to have graced the tournament. Each position in the lineup is occupied by IPL luminaries, making it a dream team that boas??ts balance, firepower, and skill across all departments.

Explosive openers: Michael Vaughan’s star-studded IPL XI

Vaughan opted for two of the most distinctive batters in IPL history to open his side. Rohit Sharma, the former captain of Mumbai Indians (MI) and a five-time IPL champion, was chosen to provide stability at the top. Known for his elegance and ability to play match-winning knocks, Rohit is one of the most successful players in IPL history. Joining him at the top is Jos Buttler, the explosive Rajasthan Royals (RR) batter. Buttler’s aggressive approa?ch and ability to dismantle bowling attacks with ease make him a dange??rous opener in any T20 lineup.

Middle order powerhouse

At No. 3, Vaughan selected “Mr. IPL” himself, Suresh Raina. Raina was the first player in IPL history to reach 5000 runs, and his contributions as a swashbuckling southpaw and a live wire on the field have made him an IPL legend. Following Raina is the pillar of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Virat Kohli. Though Kohli is no longer a regular in the Indian T20I setup due ?to retirement, his stature in the IPL is unmatched. Since his?? remarkable 2016 season, where he scored over 900 runs, Kohli has only grown in stature and remains a key figure in the competition.

Also READ: IPL 2025: BCCI releases deadline for the retention list submission ahead of the mega au??ctions

The finisher and the captain

At No. 5, Vaughan chose Kieron Pollard, the explosive all-rounder from Mumbai Indians. Pollard’s ability to clear the boundaries with ease and provide crucial overs with the ball makes him a valuable asset. His fielding, often turning matches around with incredible catches and run-outs, further strengthens his inclusion.

MS Dhoni was named captain of Vaughan’s all-time XI. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend is widely regarded as one of the best finishers in the history of the IPL. ?His lightning-fast glovework behind the stumps, calm demeanor, and tactical genius have earned him countless accolades. Dhoni has led CSK to numerous titles and has provided thrilling finishes, both with the bat and as a capt??ain, throughout his IPL career.

All-round dominance

Ravindra Jadeja, the all-rounder who has been instrumental for CSK, was listed as the team’s primary all-rounder. Despite a few underwhelming seasons recently, Jadeja’s overall package of batting, bowling, and world-class fielding cannot be ignored. Alongside him is Ravichandran Ashwin, another IPL stalwart. Ashwin’s guile with the ball and his ability to contribute valuable runs lower down the order make him a ??vital part of Vaughan’s lineup.

Pace battery and spin wizard

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah, representing India’s past and present in fast bowling, were chosen as the primary pacers. Bhuvneshwar, with his swing and ability to bowl in the powerplay, has been a consistent performer in the IPL. Bumrah, on the other hand, is regarded as one of the best death bowlers in T20 cricket. Their ability to de?liver under pressure and turn games around for their respective franchises made them obvious choices for Vaughan’s XI.

Rashid Khan, one of the most successful spinners in IPL history, takes the No. 11 spot. Known for his ability to bowl economical spells while picking up crucial wickets, Rashid has been a key player for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). His batting prowess has also come to the fore in recent seasons, where he has pla?yed valuable cameos to help his team at the business end of innings.

Impact player

As Vaughan’s impact player, Lasith Malinga completes the lineup. The former Sri Lankan fast bowler is an IPL l??egend, having played a pivotal role in MI’s five IPL titles. Known for his lethal pace and unplayable yorkers, Malinga’s ability to ??deliver in crunch moments is unparalleled. His contributions during Mumbai’s title-winning campaigns cement his place as one of the greatest bowlers in IPL history.

The exclusion of AB de Villiers and Sunil Narine

However, two prominent names that were left out of Vaughan’s squad were AB de Villiers and Sunil Narine – two of the most influential players in IPL history. One of the most surprising omissions from Vaughan’s lineup is De Villiers, fondly known as “Mr. 360” for his ability to play shots all around the ground. De Villiers has been a fan favorite and a match-winner for RCB over the years. His explosive batting, ability to handle pressure, and numerous game-changing innings have made him one of the IPL’s biggest icons.

Another notable omission is Sunil Narine, the West Indian mystery spinner who has dominated the IPL with his tricky variations and economical bowling spells for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Narine’s ability to keep batt?ers guessing and to contribute with the bat as an explosive opener has made him one of the most ??versatile players in the tournament’s history.

Also READ: IP?L 2025 Auction: Here’s how the new uncapped player rule benefit CSK in retaining MS Dhoni

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South African legend AB de Villiers has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, hanging his boots after a 17-year-long career. The right-handed batter played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is for the Proteas and 184 matches in the India??n Prem??ier League (IPL).

In his official statement, De Villiers said: “It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket.

Ever since the backyard 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.

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.

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.”

It has been an incredibl?e journey, but I have decided to retire from all c?ricket.

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. pic.twitter.com/W1Z41wFeli

— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) November 19, 2021

De Villiers was a key member of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in ?the IPL. For RCB, the 37-year-old played many eye-catching innings, even picked up an award for the most power-packed knock in IPL 2012.

He had been a finisher par excellence, hit a sublime hundred at Wankhede in 2015 and another at M Chinnaswamy Stadium against the now-defunct Gujarat Lions in 2016. With Virat Kohli, De Villiers added five 100+ partnerships for RCB and two 200+ partnerships. He made 313 runs in IPL 2021, finishing fourth on the runs chart ??for his franchise.

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AB de Villiers left the cricketing world in shock when he announced his retirement from international cricket in 2018. His decision to hang his boots came?? as a surprise to many, considering his age, form and fitness level. The South African veteran??, however, continued to play franchise cricket around the world.

As per media reports, ABD made a last-minute effort to make a comeback into the Proteas side ahead of the ODI World Cup last year. But the South African team management turned down his proposal.? De Villiers comeback continues to remain t??he talk of the town as speculations over his future in international cricket intensifies.

Speculations have been on the rise ever since Mark Boucher has been appointed the head coach of South Africa. Boucher has already stated on multiple occasions that he won’t be shying away from summoning the Proteas star back into the side.

De Villiers, meanwhile, remained coy on his potential retirement U-turn ahead of the 2020 T20 World Cup in Australia. He would take a final call on his international comeback only after plying his trade for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.

“Let’s wait and see what happens. My focus is on the Indian Premier League at the moment and helping Royal Challengers Bangalore realize our full potential. Then we will sit down and have a look at the rest of the year and see what is possible,” De Villiers said as quoted by Sportstar.

While the South A??frican feels that workload manage??ment is a personal call, he does believe that the mental and physical demand on the top stars is massive thanks to the non-stop cricket action.

“Each player must consider his own circumstances and make his own decision. I reached a point where I wanted to see more of my wife and two young sons and seek a reasonable balance between family and cricket. The mental and physical demands on the leading players are massive these days, but each player must decide what he can and can’t do,” he pointed.

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A decade after the first ever experimental T20 World cup, T20 International matches are now the parts of full-fledged series. The shortest format of the game has more excitement than? other forms and a player needs special talent to make this format his own.

So while entering the New Year, let’s have a look at the top 5 T20I run-scorers in 2017.

5.) Virat Kohli – 299 runs

The Indian skipper is the only player in the world who made his appearance in the most runs list in every format of the game. Virat scored 299 runs in 10 innings with an average of more than 37, though this is an impressive performance, still, it is less than Afghanistan’s Mohammad Shahzad. There is no doubt of him ranking even higher in the list if he had played in the last T20I series against Sri Lanka.

5.) Mohammad Shahzad – 299 runs

Afghanistan’s prime batsman Mohammad Shahzad joined Indian skipper Virat Kohli for the fourth position in the highest run-getters list in T20I last year. Shahzad scored 299 runs with the astonishing average of 49.83 in just 7 innings. Afghanistan is one of the most evolved teams of 2017 and Shahzad played an important role in it.

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