IPL 2022: RCB inducts Ab de Villiers and Gayle into Hall of Fame; becomes first franchise to do so
The Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise is known for doing different things. They are the only team that represents different social causes by the means of different colored jerseys every year. And once again they have proven that they are way ahead of the curve by introducing their own Hall of Fame.
On Monday, the Bangalore-based franchise held a Hall of Fame induction ceremony. It took place in the presence of all its players and the Director of Cricket operations for the franchise.
Virat Kohli, the former skipper and the oldest player of the team, announced the first two inductees of the Hall of Fame. And they were none other than AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle. A video montage was also played to pay tribute to the two batters. The two players were also present in the ceremony, albeit virtually.
Emotional speeches by the Inductees
“AB has truly changed the game of cricket with his innovation, brilliance, and sportsmanship, which truly defines the RCB Play Bold philosophy,” said Virat Kohli. He added that both these players have a huge hand in bringing IPL where it is today.
De Villiers delivered an emotional speech in which he said, “We had some amazing times together as a team, and the sun has moved on for Chris and I now, but we are still very much part of the family and will always be. So yes, thank you very much for the very special touch. Faf and the guys sitting there, Virat and the guys that know me really well for many years know how special stuff like this is to me.”
While Gayle, on the other hand, also showed his gratitude to the side. “It has been really special to me as well. And to be inducted is something fantastic, and I will always keep RCB close to my heart. I share a lot of memories with some special players, some special coaches as well,” he added.
Due to the absence of the players in person, RCB has decided to hold a physical ceremony in Chinnaswamy Stadium.
