Amid a large number of Indian supporters here at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Abraham Benjamin de Villiers and Millie de Villiers never felt away from home.
The duo had flown in to India to watch their son, AB de Villiers (AB), play his 100th Test and the exceptional love and support showered by the Indians on the right-hander took them by surprise.
“I was a bit surprised when the crowd started chanting ‘AB, AB’ when he came into bat. It was great to see them cheer for AB and I felt that they will start mourning when he got out,” said de Villiers.
AB has enthralled the Bengaluru crowd on numerous occasions while wearing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru colours (RCB) in the Indian Premier League and that is one of the prime reasons behind their son’s fan following in the city, the proud parents felt.
“Bengaluru is AB’s new home. He is here every year to play for RCB. He is now one among you,” said Millie.
Apart from his parents, AB’s wife Danielle and son AB Jr watched him from the stands on this special occasion. “The entire family is proud of his achievements. It was a great innings by him today. Full credit to Indian bowlers as well,” said de Villiers. Speaking about her husband’s affection for India, Danielle said, “He loves playing in India and he is in awe of the support he gets from the country.”
The 31-year-old right-hander, who has evolved into a complete batsman in all formats of the game, is also a composed player under pressure. Recollecting her son’s childhood days, Millie revealed AB’s mantra of success.
“Right from his childhood, he was a hard worker and very disciplined. Also, AB was a team man. That is why, despite being good in tennis and golf, he chose cricket,” she said.
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