The cricketing world today reacted with shock and surprise at AB de Villiers' sudden decision to quit international cricket with Sachin Tendulkar leading the tributes.
"Like your on-field game, may you have 360-degree success off the field as well. You will definitely be missed. My best wishes you to always, @ABdeVilliers17!," Tendulkar tweeted.
One of contemporary cricket's greatest batsmen, De Villiers, today made a sudden announcement to retire from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, claiming to be "out of gas" after 14 years in the top league.
Congratulating De Villiers on his illustrious career, former India batsman Virender Sehwag said international cricket will be "poorer" without the South African talisman.
"Congratulations @ABdeVilliers17 , the most loved cricketer in the world, on a wonderful career. International cricket will be poorer without you, but you will continue to be celebrated by cricket fans around the world," Sehwag wrote on his twitter handle.
Veteran India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh echoed with Tendulkar.
"One of the world's finest and most versatile batsmen, retires today. He's played brilliantly till now and the world will surely miss seeing him on the field. @ABdeVilliers17," Harbhajan tweeted.
Former India batting great VVS Laxman added: "Many congratulations @ABdeVilliers17 on a glorious Cricket career. You enriched the game with your ability, presence and mannerisms and will continue to be a role-model for aspiring cricketers. Wish you a very happy post-retirement life."
Another of de Villiers' former teammate Mark Boucher added: "I remember this young guy on his 1st day out for Proteas... What an inspiration, person and player he turned out to be. Thank you for everything you have done and been for your country, teammates and fans @ABdeVilliers17 #legend."
Out of favour India pacer RP Singh, who was once de Villiers' teammate in Royal Challengers Bangalore wrote: "The man who showed the world that batting 360 is an easy task. All the best for your future endeavours @ABdeVilliers17, thank you for all the unforgettable memories!"
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