South African batsman AB de Villiers, the lynchpin of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) unit in Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most fan-favourite players around the cricketing world. In fact, Mr. 360 boasts of devoted followers in India who cheer for him every time he steps on the pitch in the country. And this love is mutual with AB de Villiers also in much of awe of the country. He recently stated about naming his next child ‘Taj’ inspired by the beauty and grandeur of Indian heritage site Taj Mahal. Another option was ‘Karnataka’, but De Villiers wants to name his third child after Taj Mahal that holds a special place in his heart.

AB de Villiers and his wife Danielle have a special connection with India’s Taj Mahal. During Indian Premier League in 2012, the star batsman had proposed marriage to his then girlfriend Danielle in front of the iconic white-marbled structure. According to Deccan Chronicle report, De Villiers said the most romantic lines, ‘You’re the one I want to live with forever. Danielle, will you marry me?’ Well, it made his beautiful ladylove burst into happy tears leaving the cricketer tensed. Much to his happiness and relief, Danielle followed it quickly by saying ‘Yes’. The couple got married in 2013.

AB de Villiers and Daniella (Photo Credits: Twitter)

Years later, Taj Mahal, the ultimate epitome of love is again cementing its special place in the celebrity couple’s life. According to reports, ABD who is participating in IPL 2018 has expressed his desire to naming his next child Taj. The couple blessed with two sons – Abraham de Villiers Junior (AB de Villiers Jr.) born in 2015 and John Richard de Villiers born in 2017. He has decided to name his next child Taj as it would give a powerful identity to a boy. The 34-year-old was also considering the name ‘Karnataka’ but eventually went with Taj.

AB de Villiers family (Photo Credits: Twitter)
AB de Villiers family (Photo Credits: Twitter)

One man who inspired ABD to name his child based on an Indian wonder is countryman and former South African cricketer, Jonty Rhodes. Rhodes who works as Mumbai Indians fielding coach had named his daughter India after his wife Melanie Wolf gave birth to her in India. Her full name is India Jeanne Jonty Rhodes, a name dedicated to the rich culture, tradition and heritage of the country and unconditional love Jonty Rhodes has for the country.

Jonty Rhodes with family (Photo Credits: Twitter)

"It is a very spiritual country, very forward-thinking nation. I really like that combination. You have to have a good balance of life. With the name like India, she will have the best of both worlds and that sort of balance," Rhodes had said. Well, it is now AB de Villiers’ turn to adopt a name inspired the country.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 17, 2018 11:21 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).