New Delhi: Veteran batters AB de Villers and Chris Gayle, two of the most decorated cricketers of all time, were formally inducted into the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fall of fame on Monday morning, May 15. The Bangalore-based franchise honored the legendary batting duo for their unforgettable contribution to the growth of RCB. Both Gayle and De Villers have been entertaining fans with their hard-hitting skills, playing some jaw-dropping knocks over the years. Gayle and De Villiers are the first-ever members to be inducted into RCB's 'Hall of Fame'.
Ex-RCB captain Virat Kohli thanked Ab de Villiers and Chris Gayle for 'making the IPL what it is today'.
“It’s truly special for me to be doing this for the both of you. We have seen how you’ve changed the way the IPL has been played over the years. Two people who have had a huge impact in IPL being where it is today and to bring RCB to where it is today. I’ve played for 11 years with AB de Villiers whereas seven with Chris Gayle. Both the journeys started in 2011 which for me will be the most special year. I met both of you in 2011, I started playing with both of you and RCB got to experience the brilliance of both you guys for so many years,” Kohli said.
RCB legend AB de Villiers said he was really touched by the gesture.
“What an amazing privilege to be honest. I am quite emotional since I’m out of cricket and watching you boys on television really gets me excited. I believe it’s going to be a special one. Everyone in the franchise who set this up, it’s a really special touch and we have had some amazing time together as a team,” de Villiers said.
While Chris Gayle didn't register his name for the IPL 2022 mega auction, AB de Villiers announced his retirement from the IPL ahead of this season.