On Tuesday (October 16), India’s cricket superstar Virat Kohli he paid tribute to his close friend and ex Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate, AB de Villiers, after the latter was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame.
AB de Villiers inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame
South African cricket legend De Villiers has been honored by being inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024, joining a host of esteemed cricketers. Sir Alastair Cook and Dear David. De Villiers, affectionately known as “Mr. 360,” enjoyed a stellar 14-year international career, amassing over 20,000 runs across all formats and scoring the fastest fifty, century and 150 in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). His remarkable ability to adapt to any situation and perform under pressure made him one of the most devastating batsmen in the history of cricket.
Distinguished for his extraordinary talent, De Villiers made a significant impact on the game, winning the admiration of players and fans alike. His contributions to the sport are recognized not only by his records, but also by the lasting influence he has had on the players who follow in his footsteps. His induction into the Hall of Fame is a testament to his exceptional career and the legacy he has created in the world of cricket.
A unique bond between two cricketing giants: Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers
Kohli and De Villiers have developed a deep friendship based on shared experiences, mutual respect and an undying passion for the game. In his tribute to the ICC, Kohli expressed his deep admiration for De Villiers in a heartfelt open letter – a cherished tradition for the Hall of Famer. This personal note not only reflects their close bond, but also highlights the incredible impact De Villiers has had on Kohli’s career and the cricketing community at large, highlighting the respect and admiration that transcends their nationalities.
Also READ: AB de Villiers spills the beans on Rohit Sharma’s move to RCB speculation ahead of IPL 2025.
Kohli’s open letter: A personal celebration of perfection
In his open letter, Kohli addressed de Villiers directly, saying:
“It is an honor for the EU to be chosen to write these words as you enter the ICC Hall of Fame. You absolutely deserve your place – after all, the Hall of Fame is the epitome of your impact on the game, and yours is truly unique.”
He emphasized de Villiers’ extraordinary talent and said:
“People have always talked about your ability, and rightly so. You are the most talented cricketer I have played with, definitely number one.”
- Highlighting De Villiers’ unmatched confidence on the field
Reflecting his own confidence in de Villiers’ game, Kohli highlighted:
“But what really stood out to me was your belief in this ability. You had a crazy belief that you could accomplish whatever you wanted on the cricket field, and you usually did. That’s why you’re so special.”
- Remembering memorable matches: a look at their partnership
Kohli recounted a defining moment of their time together in 2016 when de Villiers displayed extraordinary skill and instinct in a thrilling match:
“There is no better example than when we batted together for RCB in Kolkata in 2016. You came to join me with about 70 people on the board and Narine was bowling. You played a pair and missed, and for a while you told me you didn’t pick it very well.
Kohli added:
“I felt like, so I remember, hit me and I’ll try to hit his boundaries. After the time-out I was ready at the last moment for Narine plus first time non-striker you will definitely give me a single. Imagine going back to the leg side, Sunil following you and sweeping it over square leg for a 94m six!”
Kohli ended this anecdote:
“I don’t know what happened in the timeout to give me the confidence that you can do it. I remember telling you, ‘You’re crazy!’
- Unspoken Agreement: Running between doors
Kohli praised his unspoken understanding during matches, especially his flawless runs between the wickets:
“For example, when we ran between the wickets, we would never call a run. It is a very difficult thing to explain practically, but there is a feeling. It was completely understood where the ball was going and there was no need to say anything. The pitches were always under pressure when we were batting. I don’t ever remember losing two or being exhausted with you.” It was an example of the synergy they shared as teammates.
- Emphasizing a champion mindset: Adapting to match situations
Kohli praised de Villiers’ adaptability and mental toughness, sharing a special Test match anecdote that demonstrates his unwavering focus and dedication:
During my time playing with you and against you, you always had a very clear understanding of how the game should be played and whether you were good or not, you never wavered from it. Your desire to be the man to win the game for your team was immense and I learned a lot…” Kohli emphasized that de Villiers’ mentality was central to his success.
- Legacy of excellence: Masterful Test batting against India
Highlighting de Villiers’ ability to adapt to different match situations, Kohli recalled a Test match in 2015 in which de Villiers faced 297 balls for 43 runs:
“At some stage, there was a desire to think, “I faced 200 balls, I have to hit the boundary.” But once you’ve committed yourself to what the situation calls for, you’ve moved on.”
He concluded his words like this:
“It all comes back to your belief in your ability. It wasn’t just about crazy, extravagant shots. You had the ability to defend the ball and you had the confidence to defend it. Playing like that because South Africa needs you is a classic example of a team player.”
- The essence of de Villiers’ game: more than just statistics
Kohli emphasized that de Villiers’ impact on cricket went beyond mere statistics:
“Many players can have impressive numbers, but very few players affect the psyche of the audience. To me, that’s the highest value you can have as a cricketer and that’s what makes you so special.”
- Conclude with a celebration of legacy: Hall of Fame Induction
Kohli finally celebrated de Villiers’ induction into the Hall of Fame and extended his heartfelt congratulations:
“You are in the Hall of Fame because of the impact you have left on the game and I don’t think there is anything more special for a cricketer than to have that honour. Congratulations, biscuit. You are one of the greatest players to ever play the game.”
