Celebrating a remarkable chapter in cricket history, the ICC has shared an open letter penned by Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s modern legends, to his close associate and legendary cricketer AB de Villiers. This letter marks AB de Villiers’ prestigious induction into the ICC Hall of Fame, acknowledging a journey that has thrilled cricket fans worldwide and left an indelible impact on the game.
“As you enter the ICC Hall of Fame, it is an honor for me to articulate what countless fans have felt about your incredible journey in cricket,” opens Kohli, immediately capturing the deep respect and camaraderie between these two stalwarts. Kohli’s letter is a heartfelt tribute to AB de Villiers, also known as Mr. 360 for his extraordinary ability to play shots all around the ground, describing how de Villiers has consistently redefined the norms and expectations of professional cricket.
Kohli begins by reflecting on the unparalleled talents that de Villiers displayed on the cricket field, which set him apart. Known for his versatile playing style, de Villiers has often been hailed as one of the most naturally gifted players in cricket. “Your belief in your ability was something that always stood out,” Kohli writes, emphasizing how de Villiers combined raw talent with an unshakeable confidence in his skills. This unique combination made him a force to be reckoned with, whether batting, fielding, or even behind the stumps.
The letter takes us back to 2016 during a match in Kolkata where both players were representing Royal Challengers Bangalore. As the game progressed, they found themselves needing to chase down a daunting target against a challenging bowling lineup that included icons like Sunil Narine and Andre Russell. Kohli recalls an unforgettable moment: with Narine bowling, and de Villiers initially expressing uncertainty about reading his deliveries, what unfolded next became folklore. Kohli remembers: “During a timeout, you told me you weren’t picking Narine too well. I suggested giving me the strike. But to my amazement, you launched a 94-metre six off a ball you couldn’t even pick.
. That sums up who you are — doing things that leave everyone wondering, ‘How did that just happen?'”
Kohli paints a vivid picture of the chemistry they shared on the cricket field, where communication was so implicit that they rarely had to call for runs while running between the wickets. It was an understanding based on instinct and trust, a rare bond that only grew stronger through the years of playing together. Fielders were constantly under pressure when the two batted together, something Kohli cherishes as some of the most fun moments of his career.
Beyond the brilliance on the field, Kohli highlights de Villiers’ sportsmanship and determination to win, not for personal glory, but for his team’s success. “Your drive to win games for your side was incredible,” Kohli acknowledges, hinting at de Villiers’ unquestionable commitment to the sport and his team. Unlike many, de Villiers never let his previous performances influence his present state of mind, always approaching each match with fresh dedication and optimism.
Kohli reminisces about de Villiers’ adaptability, showcasing a specific instance from a 2015 Test match where de Villiers faced an exhausting 297 deliveries, demonstrating pure perseverance to save his team from defeat. Such feats exemplified his belief in his skills and his commitment to his team’s objectives, rather than the temptation of personal milestones.
The letter moves towards closing as Kohli underscores the profound influence de Villiers has had on cricket’s psyche worldwide. Notably, Kohli points out that unlike others who might boast impressive statistics, very few can leave as deep an impact on the game and those who watch it as de Villiers has. “That is the highest value you can have as a cricketer, and it is what makes you so special,” Kohli concludes.
In this heartfelt tribute, Kohli encapsulates what fans and fellow players have cherished about AB de Villiers throughout his illustrious career. The ICC Hall of Fame not only celebrates his incredible achievements but also the passion and innovation he brought to the game, making him one of cricket’s most beloved ambassadors. As cricket fans applaud his inclusion in the Hall of Fame, Kohli’s words remind us of the sheer joy and awe de Villiers brought to cricket fields worldwide, cementing his legacy in the annals of cricket history.