AB de Villiers tore into Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s critics, calling them ‘cockroaches’.

AB de Villiers Fires Back at Negativity
Former South African superstar AB de Villiers has launched a sharp rebuttal against critics of Indian legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He compared constant negativity to cockroaches crawling out of the dark. Moreover, he stressed that such critics lack perspective and respect. In fact, he called their behavior toxic and unconstructive. Therefore, he urged fans to appreciate greatness instead of tearing it down.
Legends Deserve Respect, Not Ridicule
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have shaped modern cricket for over a decade. Consequently, their records speak louder than any online rant. Additionally, both players consistently deliver under pressure. For instance, Kohli recently returned to form with match-winning knocks. Meanwhile, Rohit continues to lead India with calm authority. Hence, de Villiers believes their legacy deserves admiration, not mockery.
The Cockroach Analogy Sparks Conversation
During a recent interview, de Villiers used a vivid metaphor to describe online trolls. He said negativity “climbs out like cockroaches” whenever India loses. Furthermore, he pointed out how quickly praise turns to abuse. However, he reminded everyone that even the best have off days. Thus, he encouraged a more balanced and empathetic fan culture.
Consistency Over Criticism Matters Most
Cricket is a game of highs and lows—no player escapes it. Yet, Kohli and Rohit have shown remarkable resilience over the years. Indeed, their stats back their elite status globally. Also, their leadership has inspired a new generation of cricketers. As a result, de Villiers insists that critics should focus on growth, not gossip.
A Call for Mature Cricket Fandom
De Villiers ended his comments with a powerful message to fans worldwide. He asked them to support players through thick and thin. After all, loyalty defines true fandom. Moreover, he noted that legends like Tendulkar and Ponting faced similar phases. Therefore, he hopes the cricketing world chooses grace over grumbling.
