Kohli brands AB de Villiers as 'best batsman of this generation'

Johannesburg: Indian batting star Virat Kohli has heaped praise on AB de Villiers, describing his Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate as 'the best batsman of this generation'. Kohli struck a magnificent 157-run partnership for the opening wicket in just 14.3 overs as the Royal Challengers started their Indian Premier League campaign on a winning note after beating Sunrisers Hyderabad by 45 runs on Tuesday. South African swashbuckling batsman De Villiers smashed 82 off just 42 balls, while Kohli stroked 75 as the team scored in excess of 200. Reflecting on his scintillating stand with the South African, Kohli insisted that De Villiers reasserted his status as the best batsman of this generation as he eased pressure on his side by striking the ball in his own way, Sport24 reported. According to Sport24, Virat Kohli told Sony, "I wanted to get off the blocks (fast), but he came in and started hitting the ball like only he can, and showed why he is the best batsman of this generation." Bangalore will next play against the Delhi Daredevils at home on Sunday.