Legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers has launched a scathing attack on critics after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli faced unnecessary criticism during India’s recent three-match ODI series in Australia. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have been playing Indian cricket for over a decade, have been heavily criticized simply because of some low scores in Australia.
The Australian tour didn’t start well for the two legends. In the first ODI match, Rohit scored only 8 runs, while Kohli was dismissed for a duck. In the second match, Rohit fought hard and made 73, but Kohli was again out without scoring and India ended up losing the ODI series 1-2 against Australia.
AB de Villiers slams critics for targeting Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli after Australia series
That was enough for some fans and critics to start doubting India’s former captains, questioning their place and form as if years of excellence could be forgotten overnight. But when the world started counting them out, Rohit and Kohli responded in the best possible way with the bat.
Your daily dose of cricket!
Also Read: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma finalized in India’s 2027 World Cup squad: ‘Whether they score runs or not…’
In the third and final match of the ODI series, the ‘Ro-Kos’ reminded everyone of their class and heritage. They joined forces to build a powerful 168-team partnership that completely dominated the Australian bowling attack in Sydney. Rohit played a superb unbeaten knock of 121, while Kohli backed him up magnificently with an excellent unbeaten 74.
Together, the Indian batting icons chased down the target with ease, leading India to a memorable nine-wicket victory to avoid a whitewash in the ODI series in Australia. It was the perfect way to end their Australian chapter, as they will never return to this coast as players.
I don’t know if I can call them people: AB de Villiers
After the ODI series between India and Australia, AB de Villiers, who played with Kohli and shares a deep bond with his former RCB teammate, was upset to see people trying to bring them down. The Proteas great expressed how strange it is that some people choose to spread negativity when great players are approaching the latter stages of their careers.
De Villiers reminded everyone that they don’t need validation from critics. But the former South Africa captain said that instead of criticizing, it should be the time to celebrate the countless victories, match-winning innings and moments of joy that Rohit and Kohli have given fans over the years.
AB de Villiers said in a video on his YouTube channel: “I don’t know what it is about people. I don’t know if I can call them people. Cockroaches come out of their holes as soon as players reach the end of their career. Why? Why do you want to pour negative energy on players who have given their lives for their country and this beautiful game of cricket? This is the perfect time to celebrate them.”
Also Read: Watch: Australian commentator breaks down as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma bid farewell to Australia
AB de Villiers calls out negativity around Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
He also pointed out that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma faced a lot of pressure and criticism over the past few months despite their incredible achievements and impact on cricket, but they continued to play with the same passion and determination.
De Villiers concluded by saying, “They’ve received a lot of criticism over the last few months. Everyone is just trying to bring them down, for what reason I have no idea. Obviously I’m referring to the minority because I think the majority of people celebrate Rohit and Virat and their incredible careers. And it’s a fantastic time to celebrate them once again.”
