"A letter to AB de Villiers, from Virat Kohli" | Virat Kohli's Heartfelt Tribute to AB de Villiers on His ICC Hall of Fame Induction

Virat Kohli’s Heartfelt Letter to AB de Villiers Following ICC Hall of Fame Induction

On October 16, 2024, cricketing legend AB de Villiers was honored with induction into the ICC Hall of Fame. Following this significant announcement, Virat Kohli, his close friend and former teammate at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), penned an emotional letter to de Villiers. Kohli’s message highlighted their shared experiences on the field and paid tribute to de Villiers' impact on the sport.

Celebrating a Decade-Long Friendship at RCB

Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers’ partnership at RCB has been one of the most memorable in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). De Villiers joined the team in 2011, and from that point, he and Kohli formed an inseparable bond, both as teammates and friends. Their chemistry was particularly evident during the 2016 season when they put on a legendary performance against the Kolkata Knight Riders, taking on the formidable bowlers like Sunil Narine and Andre Russell​

Kohli’s letter recounts an iconic moment from that match when de Villiers hit a 94-meter six off Sunil Narine, even after initially struggling to pick his deliveries. This moment epitomized de Villiers’ unique ability to back himself in challenging situations, which Kohli described as an unmatched quality that set him apart from other players.

The Hall of Fame Tribute: A Reflection on Greatness

In his tribute, Kohli praised de Villiers' versatility, recalling his remarkable performances in various formats of the game. One notable example was from the 2015 Test match in Delhi, where de Villiers demonstrated his defensive prowess by playing 297 balls to score 43 runs to save the game for South Africa. This adaptability and commitment to his team's needs were what made de Villiers a true all-rounder in cricket, capable of excelling in any role required by his side​

Kohli emphasized that while de Villiers was renowned for his aggressive and innovative stroke play, his real genius lay in his ability to adapt his style to the demands of the game. This quality made him not just a cricketing sensation but also an exemplary team player who always put the squad's goals above his own personal milestones.

More Than Just Teammates: A Bond Beyond Cricket

The camaraderie between Kohli and de Villiers extended beyond the cricket field. They shared a deep bond that influenced the culture of RCB, inspiring younger players to focus on teamwork and mutual respect. The pair often talked about their understanding of each other's game, which allowed them to play instinctively without needing to call for runs while batting. This unique synergy became a hallmark of their partnership at RCB, setting a standard for other pairs in the league​

De Villiers’ Legacy and the Hall of Fame Honor

AB de Villiers, who retired from international cricket in 2021, amassed over 20,000 runs across all formats and is widely regarded as one of the most innovative batsmen of his generation. His ability to hit the ball to all parts of the ground earned him the nickname "Mr. 360," a testament to his unmatched range of shots. His induction into the ICC Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of his extraordinary talent and influence on modern cricket.

De Villiers’ journey with RCB and his impact on the South African cricket team have left an indelible mark on the sport. Despite never winning an IPL title, the partnership between Kohli and de Villiers was often the backbone of RCB's batting lineup, thrilling fans with numerous memorable innings and match-winning performances.

Kohli’s Emotional Sign-Off

In his heartfelt sign-off, Kohli referred to de Villiers as a "biscotti," a playful nickname that signified their close friendship. Kohli’s letter not only celebrated de Villiers’ achievements but also acknowledged his role as a mentor and inspiration for cricketers around the world. He concluded by saying that de Villiers' place in the Hall of Fame was well-deserved, as it symbolized the lasting impact he had on the game and its fans.