Everyone is just trying to push Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli down: Former South African captain

Former South African captain AB de Villiers lambasted the critics of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, comparing them to cockroaches. He failed to understand why people start doubting the abilities of legendary cricketers when they near the twilight of their careers.

Kohli and Rohit returned to international cricket after seven months during the recent three-match series against Australia. The Delhi batter failed to get off the mark in the first two ODIs but slammed an unbeaten 74 off 81 balls in the third. On the other hand, Rohit won the Player of the Series award after scoring a fifty in the second ODI and a century in the third.

"I don't what it is about people. I don't know if I can call them people. Cockroaches climbling 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 for their country and this beautiful game of cricket. This is the perfect time to celebrate them," said De Villiers.

It is a fantastic time to celebrate them once again: AB de Villiers

De Villiers noted that Rohit and Kohli have taken a lot of criticism in recent times. However, he feels that the critics are in the minority. The cricketer-turned-expert urged everyone to celebrate the careers of the two former Indian captains instead of finding their flaws.

"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 referreing to the minority becase 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," said De Villiers.

Rohit and Kohli are expected to return to action once again during the three-match ODI series at home against South Africa, starting on November 30.