After South African batter AB de Villiers announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday, India’s Test and ODI captain Virat Kohli aptly summed up his Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate’s greatness by calling him the “best player of our times”.

“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,” Kohli tweeted.

“This hurts my heart but I know you’ve made the best decision for yourself and your family like you’ve always done. I love you,” he added.

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The 37-year-old announced his retirement on Twitter, ending an illustrious career of nearly two decades, in which he played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs, and 78 T20Is for the Proteas. He also represented various franchises in T20 leagues across the world.  De Villiers has played 156 matches for IPL team Royal Challengers Bangalore and scored 4,491 runs.

In a statement released, De Villiers said, “It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket.”

Tributes poured in following the retirement announcement.

“The best I’ve ever seen, and someone who I’ve always looked up to! Took the game to another level singlehandedly mr360,” said England’s wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings.

Former India batter VVS Laxman wrote, “Congratulations on a fabulous career. One of the true modern day greats and an inspiration for so many. Wish you the very best in your second innings.”

Former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene said, “Congratulations on a fabulous career.. brilliant guy on and off the field. Wishing you all the very best in your future. Pure class.”