Dear AB.
Your decision to quit international cricket on Wednesday has stunned the world.
Your millions, sorry it’s actually over a billion, (of) fans were left gasping for air - just like we do every time you hit an amazing shot or make an incredible catch like you did the other day in the IPL.
That unbelievable feat of athleticism was out of the top drawer and would have made Jonty Rhodes in his prime Hulk-green with envy.
So it’s sad to hear that you won’t be wearing the Green and Gold at the World Cup next year.
Actually, that’s what I’ve been meaning to bring up - the World Cup.
I’ve made a big decision today pic.twitter.com/In0jyquPOK
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 23, 2018
With the big ODI tournament coming up, we South Africans were kind of expecting you to be there.
So on behalf of us back here at home, we are hoping you will reconsider.
How about one last swing for the fences and end your career with some glory?
I heard CSA boss Thabang Moroe has already pleaded with you to change your mind and continue to be part of our World Cup plans and hopes.
We know what you bring to the team. We’ve seen what you’re capable of.
You hold the record for the fastest one-day hundred.
That knock against the West Indies was insane to watch.
AB de Villiers in mid-air as he holds on for an incredible catch for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL on Thursday. Photo: @IPL via Twitter
You smashed a ton off 31 balls and missed out on a 150 off 44 balls when you slashed one to deep cover.
In that innings, you played some ridiculous shots.
The way you bossed the crease, sjoe. Man, that day, like so many other times, you proved you were Mr 360 - you hit a boundary in almost every area, helping SA post its highest ODI total in 2015.
And you did it again at the World Cup again later that year against the Windies, with a 162 off 66.
You have some form at the big tournaments and you can still have some runs in you, I’m sure.
So, we have to say that, with due respect, we don’t accept your decision to retire.
I hear you say that you’re tired. So take a break, bru.
Photo: icc-cricket.com
In fact, call it a day on the Test cricket and T20Is. We’ll learn to manage now.
But the World Cup is different. What happened to Maak Jou Drome Waar? We thought you wanted to lift that trophy.
What happened to doing it for Madibaland? Don’t you want to help us out one last time? What if we win it without you? Won’t it make you sick with regret?
Hell, even if you don’t win it, we won’t even call you a choker - we are fighting hard to stop this labelling thing at home.
Anyway AB, we just really need you for the World Cup next year, so stop with his “I’m in, I’m out” talk.
Lionel Messi came back, Michael Jordan came back. Muhammad Ali came back. You’ll be in good company if you change your mind.