Johannesburg( The COW News Digital) Former South African captain and legendary batter AB de Villiers has come out strongly in defense of Indian stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, hitting back at critics who have questioned their recent performances. During a Facebook Live session, de Villiers referred to such detractors as “cockroaches”, saying they “crawl out of their holes only when great players face a dip in form.”
The remarks came amid growing criticism of the veteran Indian duo following India’s recent ODI series against Australia. While Rohit Sharma scored a fifty and a century during the three-match series, Virat Kohli struggled early on — dismissed for ducks in the first two games before bouncing back with a composed 74-run innings in the final match.
India’s team management is currently focusing on preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, and as part of that long-term strategy, Shubman Gill has been given leadership responsibilities in select matches. However, several commentators and fans have questioned the continued inclusion of senior players like Rohit and Kohli, prompting a wave of debate across social media.
Reacting to the criticism, de Villiers — famously known as “Mr. 360” for his all-round stroke play — said he found it “bizarre” that some people were eager to discredit players who have “served their country with pride and consistency for over a decade.”
“I don’t understand why people attack such experienced players,” de Villiers said. “It’s like these critics are cockroaches — they come crawling out of holes when legends struggle, instead of celebrating their incredible careers.”
The former Proteas captain emphasized that both Kohli and Rohit deserve respect, not ridicule, as they near the twilight of their international careers.
“These two have carried Indian cricket on their shoulders for years. Instead of tearing them down, it’s time to appreciate their contribution,” he added.
De Villiers, who shares a long friendship with Kohli from their years together at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League, often speaks highly of the Indian batting icons. He also warned fans that constant negativity toward senior players could harm the spirit of the game.
“It’s sad to see greatness being questioned instead of celebrated,” he concluded.
