Babar Azam pays tribute to ‘childhood hero’ AB de Villiers

Tributes poured in for AB de Villiers after the former South African captain announced his retirement from all formats of the game, bringing to an end a 17-year career.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam also posted a heartfelt tribute to his 'childhood inspiration'.  The 27-year-old recalled the first time he met De Villiers and wished him a happy retirement.

"You were my childhood inspiration and I always tried to learn from your charismatic approach. I still remember the first time I met you and how welcoming you were," Babar wrote.

You were my childhood inspiration and I always tried to learn from your charismatic approach. I still remember the first time I met you and how welcoming you were. You have inspired many generations of cricket. Wish you the very best and a happy retirement, @ABdeVilliers17! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/nlqsyW8iSI

— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) November 19, 2021

"You have inspired many generations of cricket. Wish you the very best and a happy retirement," he added.

It must be noted that De Villiers bid farewell to cricket earlier today. "It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket," he said on Twitter. 

"Ever since the backyard matches with my older brothers, I have played the game with pure enjoyment and unbridled enthusiasm. Now, at the age of 37, that flame no longer burns so brightly."

The right-handed batter retired from all international formats in May 2018 but was involved with franchise cricket across the globe.

He represented Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Daredevils, Barbados Tridents, Brisbane Heat, Lahore Qalandars, Middlesex, Rangpur Riders, South Africans, Titans and Tshwane Spartans in T20 cricket.