AB de Villiers Defends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Unfair Criticism

Former South African batting legend AB de Villiers has come out strongly in defense of Indian cricket icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, condemning the harsh criticism directed at them in recent times. He expressed disappointment at how sections of fans and pundits often target great players when they reach the later stages of their careers.

Calling such critics “cockroaches climbing out of their holes,” de Villiers said these individuals appear only to spread negativity and question the commitment of players who have already contributed immensely to the sport.

Standing by His Former Teammate and Friend

AB de Villiers, who shared a long association with Virat Kohli during their time together at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, emphasized that both Kohli and Rohit remain world-class performers capable of influencing matches at any stage.

He recalled that every player goes through ups and downs, especially after years of international cricket, but that does not diminish their legacy or value to the team. de Villiers highlighted the immense workload both players have carried for India — leading the team across formats and maintaining exceptional consistency for over a decade. Their records, he noted, are proof of unmatched dedication and mental strength.

He also mentioned how quickly critics forget the sacrifices players make to stay fit, motivated, and competitive at the international level. According to him, athletes like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli deserve respect and admiration, not constant judgment, especially when they continue to perform under pressure.

Calling for Perspective and Respect

de Villiers urged fans and media to show greater patience and understanding toward senior cricketers. He pointed out that the true measure of greatness lies not just in statistics but also in the leadership, inspiration, and professionalism these players bring to the dressing room. Their presence, he said, continues to guide the next generation of Indian cricketers.

The South African icon concluded by stressing that critics often underestimate how emotionally demanding professional cricket can be, particularly for players who have carried the hopes of a billion fans. Instead of tearing down legends nearing the twilight of their careers, de Villiers urged everyone to celebrate their contributions. In his words, the cricketing world should “protect and appreciate” players like Kohli and Rohit, whose passion and excellence have shaped the modern era of Indian cricket.