Anushka Sharma calls it ‘heartbreaking’ as cricketer Ab de Villiers announces retirement from cricket

AB de Villiers, a South African cricket legend, announced his retirement from all forms of the game on Friday at the age of 37. Actress Anushka Sharma, who is married to cricketer Virat Kohli, posted a note on the news of AB de Villiers' retirement, calling it "heartbreaking." 

Anushka wrote on her Instagram story about AB de Villiers, "One of the greatest men and cricketers I've had the privilege of knowing and watching. Wishing you, Danielle and the kids the very best in life always. You guys deserve everything beautiful and so much more, this is truly heartbreaking [broken heart emoji].”

Anushka wrote on her Instagram story about AB de Villiers, "One of the greatest men and cricketers I've had the privilege of knowing and watching. Wishing you, Danielle and the kids the very best in life always. You guys deserve everything beautiful and so much more, this is truly heartbreaking [broken heart emoji].”

Abraham Benjamin de Villiers announced his retirement on social media after playing 114 test matches, 228 ODIs, and 78 T20s. He wrote “It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket. 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.” He added in a separate tweet, “That’s the reality I must accept - and, even if it may seem sudden, that is why I am making this announcement today. I’ve had my time. 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."

AB de Villiers joined Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League in 2011. Virat Kohli, who played with AB de Villiers and was his ‘ RCB captain’ for many years, responded by tweeting, "To the best player of our times and the most inspirational person I've met, you can be very proud of what you've done and what you've given to RCB my brother. Our bond is beyond the game and will always be.” He further added, “This hurts my heart but I know you've made the best decision for yourself and your family like you've always done. [Broken heart emoji] love you @ABdeVilliers17." AB de Villiers replied to Virat's tweet by saying, “I love you too my brother.”