Retired South African star AB de Villiers received support from Indian legends and IPL colleagues Virat Kohli and Yuvraj Singh in the aftermath of the South African 2019 World Cup drama.

After South Africa’s disastrous start to the World Cup, reports emerged of De Villiers had offered to come back to the team on the eve of the World Cup squad selection – if the team needed him.

Captain Faf du Plessis and coach Ottis Gibson, along with the management, decided to go with the existing group of players. However, after the story of the late offer leaked, Gibson expressed his frustration at the distraction created by the news and even said that if De Villiers truly wanted to be at the World Cup, “he would be here”.

Earlier this week, De Villiers finally broke his silence and posted his side of the story on social media, insisting he made no demands and did not try to force his way into the team.

Coming to his support, his Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Kohli backed the commitment and honesty of AB.

“My brother you are the most honest and committed man I know. It’s been unfortunate to see this happen to you. But know that we stand with you and believe in you. Seeing people enter your personal space has been sad to see and uncalled for. More love and power to you and your beautiful family. Me and (wife) Anushka are always here for you guys,” Kohli said, while replying to De Villiers’ post.

Retired star Yuvraj also put his weight behind De Villiers, stating: “It is your country’s loss not to have you in the squad. The bigger the player more the criticism. We all know what a gentleman you are.”