Former South African captain and legendary batter AB de Villiers has come out strongly in defense of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, slamming their critics and calling them “cockroaches.” The cricket icon expressed his frustration over the unnecessary criticism directed at India’s two most experienced players.
De Villiers Defends India’s Veteran Stars
Speaking during a Facebook Live session, the 41-year-old de Villiers criticized those who target senior players once they face a dip in form or near the end of their careers.
“I don’t know what kind of people these are,” he said. “They crawl out of holes like cockroaches to attack players who have given everything to their country.”
De Villiers emphasized that players like Kohli and Rohit have earned immense respect through years of dedication and consistency, and instead of criticism, they deserve appreciation for their contributions to Indian cricket.
Context: Kohli and Rohit Under Fire
Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been the center of media and fan scrutiny recently. During the recent ODI series against Australia, Rohit scored a half-century and a century, while Kohli struggled early on with two ducks before regaining form with a solid 74-run knock in the final match.
As the Indian management looks ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, younger players like Shubman Gill have been given leadership opportunities. However, some critics have questioned whether Kohli and Rohit should continue in the setup, sparking debates across cricket circles.
“Respect the Legends,” Says De Villiers
De Villiers, who shared a close friendship and long on-field rivalry with both Kohli and Rohit, urged fans and experts to honor their legacy rather than tear it down.
“Why do people criticize players who have represented their country with such passion for so many years?” de Villiers asked. “This is the time to appreciate them, not drag them down.”
He added that constant negativity toward cricket’s greatest players harms the spirit of the game and disrespects the achievements they’ve worked for over decades.
Standing Up for True Greats
The former Proteas star stressed that public and media behavior toward athletes should change. According to him, the same players who are celebrated during their peak often become unfair targets when they slow down or take a break.
“Everyone tried to bring down both Rohit and Kohli over the last few months,” he said. “But true fans know what these players mean to the game.”
A Message Beyond Borders
De Villiers’ comments highlight a larger issue in global sports: the lack of respect for senior players once they age or experience a dip in performance. His defense of Kohli and Rohit sends a strong message about appreciating legends while they are still active, rather than waiting until retirement to honor them.
