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AB de Villiers Loses Cool - Calls Kohli, Rohit's Critics "Cockroaches"
Follow UsABD expressed his frustration at those constantly targeting the Indian duo
Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has come out strongly in defence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, hitting back at their critics and labelling them “cockroaches.”
Both Indian stalwarts, who have retired from Tests and T20Is, made their return to international cricket after a seven-month break in the recently concluded ODI series against Australia. Naturally, they appeared a bit rusty early on - Kohli suffered back-to-back ducks, while Rohit was dismissed for 8 in Perth and then scored a scratchy 73 off 97 deliveries in Adelaide.
However, by the time the action shifted to Sydney for the third ODI, the iconic duo looked back in their element. Rohit hammered an unbeaten 121 off 125 balls, and Kohli anchored the chase with a steady 74* off 81, as the pair stitched together an unbroken 168-run partnership to help India cruise to a nine-wicket win while chasing 237.
Their return to form served as a reminder of their enduring class and value to Indian cricket - even as they move deeper into their thirties. By the time the 2027 ODI World Cup arrives, Kohli will be 39 and Rohit 40, but their performances in Australia proved that experience can still trump age.
De Villiers, who shared the RCB dressing room with Kohli for several years, expressed his frustration at those constantly targeting the duo.
“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?” said de Villiers during a live session on his X account, as reported by Hindustan Times.
“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.
"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.”
Meanwhile, to maintain their match rhythm ahead of a busy 2026 season, Kohli and Rohit are expected to play some domestic cricket. Reports suggest both could turn out in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which runs from December 24 to January 18.
India’s upcoming schedule includes three home ODIs against South Africa from November 30 to December 6, followed by three more against New Zealand from January 11 to 18 - providing both veterans a window to represent Delhi and Mumbai, respectively.