Former South Africa captain Dean Elgar has opened up about a surprising and heated incident with former India captain Virat Kohli during a Test series in 2015. Elgar claims that Kohli “spat” on him during the first Test at the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, part of South Africa’s tour of India.
In a recent appearance on the “Banter, with The Boys” podcast, Elgar detailed the incident, stating, “I said to him if you do that, I’ll f*****g ***** you with this bat.” Elgar further shared that Kohli responded with expletives but later apologized when they met years later during India’s tour of South Africa in 2017-18.
Kohli’s apology, according to Elgar, occurred two to three years after the incident when the Indian captain approached him to make amends. The apology was made over drinks, and Elgar highlighted that this was during a time when Kohli used to consume alcohol.
Despite the past altercation, the retired Proteas player acknowledged the mutual respect between them in later encounters.
Elgar, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket, played his final Test at the Newlands in Cape Town, captaining the side due to Temba Bavuma’s absence.
In a heartwarming turn of events during Elgar’s farewell series in January, Kohli and the Indian team showed sportsmanship by giving the retiring South African player a tight hug and presenting him with a signed jersey. The series ended in a 1-1 draw after India won the second Test.
The revelation of the past confrontation adds a layer to the dynamics between Elgar and Kohli, with the latter’s subsequent apology showcasing a mature and reconciliatory gesture. The incident, now in the open, adds an interesting chapter to the history of encounters between these cricketing figures.
