Virat Kohli continues to prove that his hunger for runs is far from over. Although the Indian batting star may be approaching the final phase of his international career, his performances are still making headlines. Now, former South African batting great AB de Villiers has made a major statement, saying that the current version of Virat Kohli is even better than the one fans saw in 2016, widely regarded as one of the best years of his career.
Virat Kohli recently scored his 55th ODI century against the West Indies, adding another milestone to his remarkable career.
AB de Villiers, who shared the dressing room with Virat Kohli at IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), believes that the Indian star has been batting in this new style since the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. According to ABD, Kohli looks more relaxed and free at the crease than he did during his peak years in 2016. He explained that Kohli showed signs of this change during the Champions Trophy in the UAE, although he briefly returned to some of his old habits before finding his rhythm again.
AB de Villiers added that this is the version of Virat Kohli he enjoys watching the most. He also believes that fans are now seeing a side of the Indian batter that was not always visible in the past. Rather than focusing entirely on himself, Kohli appears increasingly focused on the people around him as well.
Virat Kohli’s performances since the 2023 ODI World Cup highlight his continued consistency in the format. Since that tournament, he has scored 1,261 runs in 25 innings, averaging 50.44. His tally includes five centuries and seven half-centuries. These numbers underline his ability to deliver big scores and remain a key contributor to India’s batting lineup.
Virat Kohli has recently indicated that the next World Cup will be the last one of his career. While the exact timeline of his international retirement remains uncertain, AB de Villiers believes the Indian star understands the importance of enjoying the game and expressing his talent for as long as he continues playing.
AB de Villiers suggested that Virat Kohli may have one final World Cup ahead of him but nobody can say exactly how many more years he will remain in international cricket. It could be two, three or even five years, depending on how his career progresses.
AB de Villiers also highlighted how valuable it could be for young cricketers to share a dressing room with Virat Kohli at this stage of his career. He believes youngsters can learn a great deal from the Indian batter, not just by watching his batting but also by observing his current approach to the game. ABD feels that Kohli’s mindset and experience can provide important lessons to the next generation.
With his recent century against the West Indies and his impressive numbers since the 2023 ODI World Cup, Virat Kohli continues to show why he remains one of the most influential batters in international cricket. And if AB de Villiers’ assessment is anything to go by, fans may still have plenty to look forward to from the former India captain.
Do you agree with AB de Villiers?
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