AB de Villiers stands tall for Rohit and Virat and called out the critics

When Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had a tough time in the Australia series, trolls jumped at the chance to call them washed up. But AB de Villiers wasn’t about to let that happen. The South African superstar came forward with some strong words for anyone doubting India’s legends. His message wasn’t just a defense; it was a reminder that true cricket fans appreciate their heroes, even when their performance isn’t stellar.

AB de Villiers defends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma against growing criticism

De Villiers, who used to play with Kohli at Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was pretty straightforward during his X live session, speaking directly to fans and critics. “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? Why do you want to pour negative energy into players that have given their lives literally for their country and this beautiful game of cricket? This is the perfect time to celebrate them—not now when they have done well,” he stated.

AB De Villiers lost his cool as he called Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma critics "Cockroaches" 😲

Do you agree with AB here? 🧐 pic.twitter.com/P8XHftinyV

— Cricket.com (@weRcricket) October 28, 2025

He elaborated on the undue pressure, noting, “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.” De Villiers clarified his target, “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.” Praising their partnership, he added, “Rohit, another hundred… Back in the runs (is) the Hitman, going strong and I am looking forward to what’s sort of ahead.”

He urged cricket enthusiasts: “If you’re a fan of cricket, it’s just really time to celebrate players like these. It’s not often players like these come across our paths. It’s a generational combo of talent that we have here, and it’s really necessary for us to celebrate them and to enjoy the last few years, however long they last.”

Tough start for India as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli struggle in Perth and Canberra ODIs

The talks emerged after India’s three-match ODI series against Australia, held in October 2025 across Perth, Canberra, and Sydney. The Indian national cricket team, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, was under the microscope as they approached the series, especially after the players had retired from T20 Internationals and Test cricket earlier that year.

Speculation was rife about their future ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, with many questioning whether they had “enough in the tank” for one last international run.

India dropped the first two ODIs, giving the Australian national cricket team a 2-0 advantage. In the first match in Perth on October 22, Rohit Sharma managed only 8 runs, and Virat Kohli was out for a duck.

During the second match in Canberra on October 25, Rohit scored 73 runs, bouncing back, while Kohli unfortunately got out for a duck after only 5 balls. These setbacks intensified online backlash, with trolls and analysts doubting the veterans’ roles in the team and proposing a quicker shift to younger players.

The match at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 28 was a game changer. Australia scored 236 for 9, but India successfully chased it down in just 37.2 overs, winning by nine wickets and avoiding a series whitewash.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli formed an unbroken 168-run partnership for the second wicket, with Sharma scoring 121 not out off 127 balls and Kohli 74 not out off 81 balls, completely dismantling the Australian bowling attack and proving their skill.

The series concluded with Australia leading 2-1, but the performance in Sydney quieted the critics and paved the way for de Villiers’ involvement.

Rohit Sharma has hit 19 ODI centuries, while Virat Kohli has an impressive 50. Together, they’ve been the backbone of India during two ODI World Cup journeys and numerous bilateral victories. Their partnership in Sydney not only lifted the team’s spirits but also highlighted de Villiers’ insight: criticism tends to surge during the twilight of careers, often overlooking years of dedication.

As India gears up for a three-match ODI series against South Africa starting on November 30 in Ranchi, and with possible domestic events like the Vijay Hazare Trophy on the horizon, de Villiers’ message acts as a motivational boost. In a time when social media opinions can be so fleeting, his perspective serves as a reminder that genuine fans should celebrate their heroes while they’re still in action.