As Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returned to the T20I squad for the Afghanistan series ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024, there was criticism over their selection. Kohli and Rohit had not played a single T20I since T20 World Cup 2022 semifinal exit as selectors gave chances to youngsters. While many felt that the selectors took a U-turn, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers wasn’t surprised by their inclusion.
“I am not surprised at all. I am very happy for Virat and Rohit. You want to get your best team out there to win the T20 World Cup.
“Yes, I understand the criticism out there that youngsters have been missing out and guys who have been playing all the time,” De Villiers, who is a commentator in SA20, told PTI.
De Villiers went on to call it a smart move considering the experience they bring in for the big event.
“I was in a similar position at the back-end of my career and it didn't work out for me. It's working out for Virat and Rohit and I think it's the right move, a smart move as you want your experienced players to be out there and they have been there and done it before and they can try to win World Cup for you,” Mr 360 said.
De Villiers also talked about what drives his former teammate at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at this stage of his career.
“Virat grew up with cricket in his blood and that keeps him going. Same thing that kept me going and towards the end of my career when fire started burning out that's when I called it a day.
“I think he has got a fantastic balance in his life with his family and spends a bit of time with them. He has started managing his career well which I could have done better towards the end of my career,” the 39-year-old said.
Kohli pulled out of the first T20I in Mohali due to personal reasons. He will be available for selection for the second T20I scheduled to be played on January 14 at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore.
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