AB de Villiers has come out strongly in support of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, saying people are trying to pull them down as they near the twilight of their careers. Both stalwarts had a tough start to the Australia tour – Rohit scored 8 before hitting 73, while Kohli registered two ducks – as India let the hosts take a 2-0 unassailable lead. However, the duo dazzled in the final game, stitching an unbroken 168-run partnership that powered India to a nine-wicket win. Rohit struck a superb 121*, and Kohli added 74* to sign off on a high.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, De Villiers lashed out at the critics, saying it’s unfair to target players who have given everything to the sport.
“I don’t know what it is about people. I don’t know if I can
call them people. Cockroaches climb 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 who have given their lives for their country and this beautiful game of cricket? This is the perfect time to celebrate them,” said De Villiers.
The former South Africa captain noted that Rohit and Kohli have faced plenty of criticism in recent months but emphasised that the majority of fans continue to celebrate their remarkable careers, calling it a perfect time to appreciate the two stalwarts.
“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 said.
After their last lap Down Under, the duo is expected to return for the South Africa ODIs in December. India will host the Proteas in a 3-match series, marking Rohit, Kohli’s return to action on home soil.
