Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) announced on their social media that former West Indies star all-rounder Chris Gayle and 'Mr. 30' AB de Villiers are the first former players of the franchise to be inducted into their newly created 'Hall of Fame'. South African AB de Villiers played represented RCB for 11 years while Chris Gayle played for them for seven years.
During the 10-minute long video, RCB's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson said that the criteria for being awarded the honorary position are that the player should have played at least three seasons at the franchise and should have had an exceptional impact on the RCB brand both on and off the pitch.
Gayle was a run machine for the Bangalore-based franchise and scored 4965 runs in 142 matches. Meanwhile, AB de Villiers has scored over 5000 runs before retiring. The former Proteas legend retired after IPL 2022.
Talking about the event, former skipper and close friend of the pair, Virat Kohli spoke about his equation with both the players and how was his experience while captaining them. "AB has truly changed the game of cricket with his innovation and sportsmanship which defines RCB's 'Play Bold' philosophy," said Kohli.
"In the videos, we saw you guys have changed how IPL is played. With AB I played for 11 years with Chris I played for seven. And both journeys started in 2011 which for me is going to be the most special year as I met the both of you. I always have a few memories with you guys that stand.
"With AB, it was the two games against Gujarat in 2016. That partnership I had will last with me for life. I got to see a close-up of how it is done and that left me astonished. In the same year when we were struggling, it was AB and Iqbal who took us home," Kohli added.
De Villiers, who was at the event virtually, said that getting inducted into the Hall of Fame is an emotional moment for him. “To the boys sitting there, what an amazing privilege. Quite emotional, to be honest. I’ve been a little out of cricket, as you know. Just watching you guys on TV really gets me excited about the things that are still coming in the season, I believe it is going to be a special one.
“Virat, thanks for the kind words and everyone from the franchise who set this up, this is a really special touch. We had an amazing time together as a team. Sun has moved on for Chris and I, but we are very much part of the family,” he added.
Gayle, meanwhile, said that his stay at RCB was a special time for him. He thanked everyone at the franchise, which will always remain close to his heart. “I want to thank the fraternity, the RCB franchise for everything. It has been really special to me as well. To be inducted into something fantastic. I will always keep RCB close to my heart. I have shared some memories with some special players, and some special coaches as well. “
“Virat, thank you for the kind words as well, it has been fantastic sharing the dressing room with you guys. I want to wish you guys all the best for the rest of the tournament and I am sure you guys can do it. Hopefully, this year will be RCB’s,” added the power hitter.
