'Everything comes to an end': South Africa's AB de Villiers retires from international cricket

The wicketkeeper-batsman played more than 100 Test matches for the Proteas but feels it is time 'for others to take over'

South Africa's AB De Villiers has retired from all forms of international cricket. James Oatway / Reuters

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket on Wednesday.

De Villiers, 34, led South Africa's one-day international side from 2011 and the Test team from January 2016, before stepping down at the end of that year due to injury.

In a video announcement released on social media, De Villiers said he was "running out of gas". The wicketkeeper-batsman played 114 Tests for the Proteas, scoring 8765 runs at an average of more than 50. De Villiers made 228 ODI appearances, amassing 9577 runs at an average of 53.50. He also appeared 78 times for the T20 team, scoring 1672 runs for an average of over 26.

De Villiers is also a regular in the Indian Premier League, turning out for Royal Challengers Bangalore every season since 2011, and for Delhi Daredevils from 2008-2010.

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"I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect," De Villiers said in the video. "After 114 Test matches, 228 one day internationals and 78 T20 internationals, it is time for others to take over. I've had my turn and to be honest, I'm tired.

"This is a tough decision. I've thought long and hard about it, and I'd like to retire while still playing decent cricket. And after the fantastic series wins against India and Australia, now feels the right time to step aside.

"It would not be right for me to pick and choose where and when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in green and gold, it must be everything or nothing.

"I will always be grateful for my teammates, the coaches and the staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years.

"It's not about earning more somewhere else, it's about running out of gas and feeling like it's time to move on. Everything comes to an end.

"To cricket fans around South Africa and around the world, thank you very much for your kindness, your generosity, and today for your understanding.

"I have no plans to play overseas. In fact, I hope I can continue to be available for the Titans in domestic cricket, and I will remain the biggest supporter of [Proteas captain] Faf du Plessis and the Proteas."