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AB de Villiers addresses backlash after Kohli-Tendulkar comparison

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 11:17 AM

Last updated Aug 27, 2026

AB de Villiers addresses backlash after Kohli-Tendulkar comparison

Summary

AB de Villiers responded to criticism following his comments comparing Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. He emphasized that while Kohli has surpassed Tendulkar in adaptability abroad, Tendulkar remains a pioneering figure for Indian cricketers. De Villiers stated that his remarks reflected his opinion, acknowledging Kohli's overseas statistics but highlighting his influence on younger players. Tendulkar, with 15,921 Test runs, vastly outpaces Kohli's tally of 9,230 runs, particularly in overseas conditions. De Villiers aims to clarify his perspective and foster discussion around the evolution of Indian batting.

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By the Numbers

•De Villiers clarified his recent comments on Kohli and Tendulkar.
•He praised Tendulkar for paving the way for subcontinental success.
•Kohli’s adaptability in foreign conditions was highlighted as significant.
•Tendulkar holds the record with 15,921 Test runs; Kohli amassed 9,230 runs.
•De Villiers spoke on his YouTube channel to address the backlash.

Latest Updates

11:17 AMYahoo Sports — ‘It’s my opinion’: AB de Villiers hits back after Virat Kohli-Sachin Tendulkar comparison sparks backlash

What they're saying

"
AB de Villiers elaborated on his recent remarks regarding the batting styles of Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. He stated that his comments centered on their ability to adjust their play, especially in foreign conditions. De Villiers appreciated Tendulkar for laying the groundwork for subcontinental cricket, while he praised Kohli for pushing those boundaries further, despite acknowledging Kohli’s overseas stats don't quite rival Tendulkar’s.
— Yahoo Sports

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