Virat Kohli: A King Deserving Respect, Not Slurs

• By Dr. AK Rana

In the cricketing world, Virat Kohli is not just a name—he’s a legacy. The man who redefined the sport, inspired millions, and elevated Indian cricket to global fame finds himself at the receiving end of appalling disrespect. Recently, Australian fans crossed the line, calling Kohli a “white dog,” an offensive and unacceptable slur. It’s not just disappointing—it’s downright disgraceful.

Let’s face it, cricket in Australia has always been intense. Banter and sledging? Sure, that’s part of the game’s charm. But outright disrespect? That’s not on. Kohli, who has given his blood, sweat, and tears to cricket, deserves better. And the worst part? The Indian fans back home aren’t exactly helping.

Indian Fans: The Hypocrites in the Stands?

Here’s the irony: Indian fans love cricket, but only conditionally. When Kohli smashes sixes or delivers a match-winning knock, he’s hailed as the “King.” But the moment he has a lean patch, the same fans turn into ruthless critics, as if they’ve been secretly trained by Australian sledgers. You cheer for Kohli’s centuries but find amusement when he’s trolled abroad? That’s not support—it’s sheer hypocrisy.

Remember the T20 World Cup? Sure, we all went gaga over SKY’s stunning catch. But let’s not forget it was Kohli’s powerful innings that gave us hope. Indian fans need to learn that support doesn’t mean hopping on the bandwagon only during the good times. It’s about standing by your team, especially when they’re being targeted unfairly.

A Double Standard on Indian Grounds

Let’s flip the script for a moment. How are Australian cricketers treated when they play in India? They’re not just respected—they’re idolized. Crowds cheer for them, brands chase them, and IPL teams pay them crores. They’re treated like royalty, even when they’re up against India. Booing? Disrespect? That’s unheard of.

But in Australia? The Indian team gets booed, mocked, and now, subjected to racial slurs. Why the double standards? And why do Indian fans laugh along instead of calling it out? It’s a slap in the face to the players who represent the nation on foreign soil.

A Message to Indian Fans or Kohli fans?

To all the Indian fans justifying this behavior for clout or likes: Stop. This isn’t just about Kohli; it’s about the spirit of cricket. It’s a sport that brings nations together, not one that fuels hate or disrespect.

It’s time we rise above this petty behavior. Stand with our cricketers, not just when they’re on top of their game but also when they’re facing tough times. And to Australian fans: Banter is fine. Healthy competition is fun. But calling someone a “white dog”? That’s not cricket—that’s just low.

Virat Kohli has given us countless moments of joy. He doesn’t deserve to be disrespected like what’s happening there in Australia. Let’s show him and our team the unwavering support they deserve.

Because if we don’t, do we even deserve to call ourselves cricket fans?

Well, that’s just my opinion. Share yours’ in comment section.

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also read “Rohit vs. Bumrah: The Captaincy Dilemma Shaking Indian Cricket”