Virat Kohli reacts after social media backlash: Here's what he said

Virat Kohli courted controversy when he asked a fan to "leave the country" while responding to his comment that he found the Indian skipper over-rated.

Virat Kohli. AFP Photo

NEW DELHI: After facing the wrath of social media users for his controversial response to a fan, India skipper Virat Kohli tried to tone down the issue somewhat on Thursday, saying he is "all for freedom of choice". Kohli courted controversy when he asked a fan to "leave the country" while responding to his comment that he found the Indian skipper over-rated. "I guess trolling isn't for me guys, I'll stick to getting trolled! I spoke about how "these Indians" was mentioned in the comment and that's all. I'm all for freedom of choice. Keep it light guys and enjoy the festive season. Love and peace to all," Kohli said in a message on his official Twitter handle. Kohli, who launched the 'Virat Kohli Official App' on his 30th birthday on Monday, faced the backlash after his reaction to a fan, who confessed his preference for English and Australian cricketers over Kohli's blue brigade. "He (Virat) is an overrated batsman. Nothing seems special in his batting. I enjoy watching English and Australian batsmen more than these Indians," the fan wrote. Kohli admitted that he was not personally affected by the criticism but pointed out that if someone does not like Indian players while living in India then they should not be living in the country.

Is #Kohli asking his non-Indian fans to leave their country and come to India🤔🤔.. Or to sort their priorities? #WTF pic.twitter.com/tRAX4QbuZI

— H (@Hramblings) November 6, 2018

"I don't think you should live in India. Go and live somewhere else. Why are you living in our country and loving other countries? I don't mind you not liking me. I don't think you should live in our country and like other things. Get your priorities right," Kohli replied. (With inputs from agencies)