After Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli faced unnecessary criticism during India’s recent three-match ODI series in Australia, legendary South African cricketer AB de Villiers has launched a scathing attack on the critics. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have steered Indian cricket for over a decade, have been heavily criticized for some low scores.
The Australian tour did not start well for both the legends. In the first ODI, Rohit scored only 8 runs, while Kohli was out for zero. In the second game, Rohit fought hard and scored 73 runs, but Kohli was out again without scoring and India lost the ODI series to Australia 1–2.
AB de Villiers hits out at critics for targeting Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli after Australia series
This was enough for some fans and critics to doubt former Indian 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 brilliantly with the bat.
Also read: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma final in India’s 2027 World Cup squad: “Whether they score runs or not…”
In the third and final match of the ODI series, “Ro-Ko” reminded everyone of his class and legacy. Together they formed a powerful partnership of 168 runs which completely dominated the Australian bowling attack in Sydney. Rohit played a brilliant unbeaten inning of 121 runs, while Kohli supported him beautifully with a brilliant unbeaten 74 runs.
Together, the Indian batsmen chased down the target with ease, leading India to a memorable nine-wicket win to avoid a whitewash in the ODI series in Australia. It was the perfect way to end his Australian chapter, as he would never return to these shores as a player.
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 alongside Kohli and shares a deep bond with his former RCB teammate, was upset to see people trying to pull him down. The Proteas great expressed how strange it is that some people choose to spread negativity when great players reach the final stages of their careers.
De Villiers reminded everyone that he does not need validation from critics. But the former South Africa captain said that instead of criticizing, it should be time to celebrate the countless wins, match-winning innings and moments of joy that Rohit and Kohli have given the 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. As players reach the end of their careers, cockroaches come out of their holes. Why? Why do you want to put negative energy into players who have given their lives for their country and this beautiful game of cricket? This is the right time to celebrate them.”
Also read: Watch: Australian commentators cried as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma bid goodbye to Australia.
AB de Villiers criticizes negativity around Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
He also pointed out that both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have faced a lot of pressure and criticism over the past few months despite their incredible achievements and impact on cricket, but they have continued to perform with the same passion and determination.
De Villiers said, “They have taken a lot of criticism in the last few months. For what reason everyone is trying to push them down, I don’t know. Obviously, I am referring to the minority because I think most people celebrate Rohit and Virat and their incredible careers. And this is a great time to celebrate them once again.”