This is truly terrible news for cricket fans around the world.

Just this morning we were singing his praises, with AB cracking ESPN’s ‘World Fame 100’ list, and now international cricket is saying goodbye to him.

WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT.

And in cracking form, having battered both the Indians and the Ozzies on home soil during those epic test match tussles.

Here’s Sport24:

In a shock move, AB de Villiers has announced his retirement from all international cricket with immediate effect.

The 34-year-old announced the news on his own app on Wednesday, posting a video to his followers.

“It’s been a tough decision to make and I’ve thought long and hard about it but I believe it is my time to step down,” he wrote.

Yes, AB has his own app.

AB also announced the decision on Twitter:

I’ve made a big decision today pic.twitter.com/In0jyquPOK

— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 23, 2018

There’s some production value in that video, so it’s not a split-second decision.

If you’re not into watching videos, here’s the gist of what he had to say:

“I have decided to retire from all international cricket with immediate effect,” he said on Wednesday. “After 114 Test matches, 228 ODIs and 78 T20 Internationals, it is time for others to take over. I have had my turn, and to be honest, I am tired.

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

“It would not be right for me to pick and choose where, when and in what format I play for the Proteas. For me, in the green and gold, it must be everything or nothing. I will always be grateful to the coaches and staff of Cricket South Africa for their support through all these years. The most important thank you goes out to all of my team mates throughout my career, I wouldn’t be half the player that I am without the support throughout the years.

“It’s not about earning more somewhere else, it’s about running out of gas and feeling that it is the right time to move on. Everything comes to an end. To the cricket fans around South Africa and the World, thank you for your kindness and 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. I will continue to be the biggest supporter of Faf du Plessis and the Proteas.”

I’m sure he will still wow the crowds at the IPL, but this is a kick to the midriff for all fans of the national team.

Please allow me some time and space to grieve.

I know you feel my pain, too.

[source:sport24]