A recent image shows Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and players from Australia leaving the field, a moment captured during a pivotal series.
In a powerful statement, cricket legend AB de Villiers has unequivocally defended his former Royal Challengers Bengaluru teammate Virat Kohli and Indian captain Rohit Sharma. He strongly condemned the wave of negativity that has been circulating around these two stalwarts of Indian cricket.
The former South African captain held nothing back, colorfully likening some of the critics to “cockroaches” who only emerge from their hiding spots when players are perceived to be in the twilight stages of their careers. “I don’t know what it is about people. I don’t know if I can call them people. Cockroaches climbing out of their holes as soon as players get towards the backend of their careers. Why? Why do you want to pour negative energy into players that have given their lives for their country and this beautiful game of cricket? This is the perfect time to celebrate them,” de Villiers declared on his YouTube channel.
He further emphasized that both Rohit and Virat are deserving of profound appreciation, not unwarranted criticism, for their long-standing and significant contributions to Indian cricket. “They have taken a lot of criticism in the last few months. Everyone is just trying to push them down for what reason, I have no idea. Obviously, I am referring to the minority because I think the majority of people celebrate Rohit and Virat and their incredible careers. And it is a fantastic time to celebrate them once again,” he reiterated.
Before India’s recent ODI series against Australia, there had been considerable speculation and discussion about the international future of these experienced players. However, both veterans responded to their critics in the most emphatic way possible: with exceptional performances on the field. After initial setbacks, including Kohli’s two ducks and Rohit’s temporary loss of ODI captaincy, the formidable duo delivered a masterclass in Sydney. Rohit’s magnificent unbeaten 121 runs and Kohli’s composed 74 not out guided India to a resounding nine-wicket victory, skillfully averting a whitewash and effectively silencing their doubters once more.