AB de Villiers, Former cricket player from South Africa, supported India’s decision. He backed the return of key players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for the three T20I games with Afghanistan.
Neither player had participated in a single T20I for India after their defeat to England in the 2022 World Cup semifinal. Nonetheless, AB De Villiers suggests that the Men in Blue require their standout sportsmen for triumphant performances in such prominent events. He added that youthful talent may need to bide their time and await their opportunity.
In a YouTube video, this is AB de Villiers’ viewpoint on the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma:
“I understand (criticism on selection of Rohit and Kohli) but at the end of the day it is a cricket World Cup. If Virat Kohli is good enough, he has to play. I don’t care whether he is managing his career due to age. 20-year-olds will understand that the likes of Rohit and Virat are needed to help India win the T20 World Cup. I wish I had that management when I was 35.”
AB de Villiers
He further added:
“I think India have shown their intent by adding Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to their T20I squad. They’re clearly thinking about the T20 World Cup.”
AB de Villiers
You always play your best players: AB de Villiers
Recalling Kohli and Rohit has, in AB de Villiers’ opinion, only increased India’s prospects of winning the T20 World Cup. He believes that on major platforms, players with such expertise and elite caliber are essential.
Regarding this, he said:
“I think it’s a good call from India. They have a good chance of winning the T20 World Cup. You always play your best players.”
AB de Villiers
In the forthcoming Twenty20 Internationals, everyone will be watching Rohit and Kohli’s performances, especially with players like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal around.
