Former South Africa cricketer AB de Villiers showered praise on India and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter Virat Kohli, calling him one of the greatest players cricket has ever seen. Kohli, currently the second-highest run-scorer in IPL 2024, has amassed 500 runs in 10 matches with a strike rate of 147.49, including 46 fours and 20 sixes.

De Villiers, speaking on his official YouTube channel, expressed frustration with critics who focus solely on Kohli’s strike rate, emphasizing Kohli’s incredible performances in the IPL.

“This guy is one of the best players to ever play the game of cricket…”

 In RCB’s recent match against Gujarat Titans (GT), Kohli’s unbeaten 70* played a crucial role in their victory, dismissing any debate surrounding his strike rate.

“Virat Kohli, catching criticism about his strike rate. It’s been going on for way too long and I am sort of fed up with that now. I’m frustrated to say the least. This guy is one of the best players to ever play the game of cricket. He’s incredible in the IPL, he plays a certain role for RCB, and I’ve pretty much had enough of data-driven pundits who keep criticising this man. When you don’t really have knowledge of the game. How many games of cricket have you played, how many IPL hundreds have you scored?” De Villiers said.

Recalling Kohli’s milestone

During the match, Kohli achieved a significant milestone, hitting his 24th half-century while chasing a target, placing him second on the all-time list behind David Warner. Additionally, Kohli equaled Warner’s record of scoring over 500 runs in an IPL season, achieving this feat for the seventh time in his career.

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Kohli’s consistent performances and milestone achievements continue to solidify his reputation as one of cricket’s all-time greats, earning praise from former teammates and opponents alike.