AB de Villiers on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma (Source: AFP)
Former South Africa legend AB de Villiers has issued a powerful message, backing Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He has openly criticised those who continue to target the Indian legends. Speaking during a live session on his X (formerly Twitter) account, de Villiers did not hold back his words, describing the critics as 'cockroaches climbing out of their holes.'
He expressed his frustration with people trying to bring down players who have given their lives to cricket, particularly as they are approaching the later stages of their careers.
“I don't know what it is about people. I'm not sure if I can call them people. Cockroaches climbing out of their holes as soon as players get towards the backend of their careers. Why?” asked de Villiers.
"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," he added.
De Villiers further added that while a minority continues to criticise, the majority of fans still celebrate what Rohit and Kohli have achieved for India.
"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," said De Villiers.
RO-KO answer critics with match-winning performance
Rohit and Kohli silenced their critics with a match-winning partnership in the third ODI against Australia in Sydney. India, having lost the series, ended on a high as the two star players stitched together an unbeaten 168-run partnership, leading India to a nine-wicket win in the final game of the ODI series.
Rohit was at his best and made 121* in 125 balls, while Kohli remained unbeaten on 74. The duo’s partnership helped India chase down 237 with ease.
Having said all this, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will return to action for India’s ODI series against South Africa starting on November 30, 2025.
