In honour of the legendary cricketers ABD and Chris Gayle, the team recently enshrined them into its Hall of Fame and permanently removed their jersey numbers from the active roster: 17 and 333, respectively.

South African cricketer and former Bangalore player AB de Villiers expressed his gratitude for the franchise’s honour. In honour of the legendary cricketers ABD and Chris Gayle, the team recently enshrined them into its Hall of Fame and permanently removed their jersey numbers from the active roster: 17 and 333, respectively. An emotional AB de Villiers thanked the franchise in a lengthy Instagram message.

I’m at a loss for words as to where to begin. Our jersey numbers were officially retired on March 26, 2023, when Chris and I were admitted into the RCB hall of fame. Several times I’ve come up the stairs to our RCB den with butterflies fluttering in my tummy, but this time was different. My heart soared as my wife, two boys, and small girl entered. It was an unusual experience to make the ascent in an altered frame of mind.

As I walked out onto the balcony of our Chinnaswamy dressing room, I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes. To hear the cries of ABD again was unlike anything I’d experienced before. Instead of the usual rush of adrenaline and the burning desire to find a way to win in response to the chants of our fans, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the opportunity to represent such a great city, team, and organisation.

So many special memories rushed back as I thought of all my days spent in India since 2003, I have a deep connection with this country and its people I’ll forever be grateful!