In a moment that transcends the boundaries of cricket, Virat Kohli, one of the modern game’s most celebrated figures, penned a touching letter to commemorate AB de Villiers’ induction into the ICC Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor, shared with Neetu David and Alastair Cook, marks a significant chapter in cricket history, recognizing players whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport.
“To AB, It is an honour to be selected to write these words as you enter the ICC Hall of Fame,” Kohli began his open letter, setting the tone for what would be a deeply personal tribute to his former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate. Kohli’s words not only celebrate de Villiers’ cricketing prowess but also reflect on the personal impact AB had on his career and the sport at large.
Virat Kohli continued, “You are thoroughly deserving of your place – after all, the Hall of Fame is a representation of your impact on the game, and yours has been truly unique. People have always spoken about your ability, and rightly so. You are the most talented cricketer I have played with, the absolute number one.” This statement from Virat Kohli, known for his own exceptional cricketing skills, underscores the high regard in which he holds de Villiers.
The letter delves into what Kohli believes set de Villiers apart from others. “But what truly stood out to me was your belief in that ability. You had a crazy amount of belief that you could execute whatever you wanted to on a cricket field, and you normally did. That is why you ended up being so special,” Kohli’s letter added. This insight into de Villiers’ mindset provides a glimpse into the mental fortitude that complemented his extraordinary talent, making him not just a great player but a phenomenon in cricket.
Virat Kohli Also Added:
“We were chasing 184 (for RCB in 2016) against an attack including Sunil Narine, Morne Morkel, Andre Russell and Shakib Al Hasan. You came in to join me with around 70 on the board and Narine was bowling. “You played and missed a couple and told me during a timeout that you weren’t picking him too well. I felt I was, so I remember telling you to give me the strike and I would try and hit boundaries off him. “In the first over, Narine bowled after the timeout; I was ready at the non-striker’s end, thinking you were giving me a single. So, imagine my surprise when you back away to the leg side, Sunil follows you and you slog sweep him over square leg for a 94-metre six! “If I have a lack of belief against someone, I’d just try and get off strike – but you hit him for a 94-metre six without picking the ball. That sums you up. You could just do things our minds were not ready to process, and then everyone thinks ‘How the hell did that happen?’”
The induction of AB de Villiers into the ICC Hall of Fame, alongside figures like Neetu David and Alastair Cook, is a celebration of cricket’s rich tapestry. Each inductee brings a unique flavor to the game, but de Villiers, with his flair and innovation, carved out a niche that will be remembered for generations. Kohli’s letter encapsulates this sentiment, offering not just congratulations but a deep, heartfelt acknowledgment of a friendship and mentorship that transcended the cricket pitch.
As cricket fans around the world celebrate this moment, Kohli’s words remind us of the human stories behind the sport. AB de Villiers’ journey to the Hall of Fame, as narrated through Kohli’s eyes, is a story of talent, belief, and the impact one can have on a sport and its community. This induction is not just an accolade for de Villiers but a moment for cricket to pause and reflect on its legends, their contributions, and the legacy they leave behind.
