Watch: AB de Villiers Talks About His First Meeting With Virat Kohli, Here's What He Said

'I thought he was quite cocky and arrogant when I met him first', said AB de Villiers.

Former South Africa legend AB de Villiers talked about his long-time colleague Virat Kohli and came up with an interesting story about him. He spoke about the first time he met Virat during his initial days playing for RCB.

“Oh my goodness, I’ve heard this question before. Yeah, I’m gonna give it an honest answer again. I thought he (Virat) was quite cocky and arrogant when I met him first. A hairstyle going, absolutely flamboyant. But the minutes I got to know him better and watched him play,I had a lot of respect for him, ” ABD replied to Chris Gayle during their chat session.

“And I think he had a barrier around him when I met him the first time and he opened up and I got to know that person. So lots of respect after that first meeting, other than not liking it. I thought he has to come down a bit to earth…(laughs).”

Gayle on the other hand also talked about his memories of representing RCB at the iconic Chinnaswamy stadium. He said, “It played a big part to be honest with you. Not only played a big part, I think, but it’s also one of the best venues I’ve actually played at. The fans, the roar, the chants and it’s fantastic and I get goosebumps when I’m playing there.”

Earlier, RCB launched their brand new jersey ahead of the IPL 2023 on Sunday at their home ground  M Chinnaswamy Stadium. More than 20000  fans witnessed the mega event. Both Gayle and de Villiers were made a part of the RCB Hall of Fame and also were given mementos during the event.

Talking about Gayle’s record, he took part in 84 games for RCB and made a huge 3,163 runs with an outstanding strike rate of 152.7.

“First of all, a big thanks to RCB for inducting me into the Hall Of Fame. I have so many fun memories of playing at the Chinnaswamy Stadium for the RCB. It feels like a homecoming for me and it was a delight for me to reconnect with the team, the players and above all the fans. The RCB, RCB chant will always stay with me.”

AB de Villiers on the other hand has played 144 matches for RCB and scored 5,000 runs and a strike rate of 158.6.  While recalling his RCB memories, he said, “It is a massively touching gesture by RCB to induct me into the Hall Of Fame and it has a very special place in my heart. I have missed the atmosphere at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, and it was enthralling for me to relieve all those experiences once more during the RCB Unbox.”