Former batsman Mohammad Kaif has come out in support of Virat Kohli and felt that the India captain’s ‘leave India’ response to a fan was “twisted”.

Kohli faced severe backlash on social media for asking a fan to leave the country. This was in response to a fan who had said that he preferred to watch Australian and English batsmen over Kohli.

“Okay, I don’t think you should live in India then you should go and live somewhere else, no? Why are you living in our country and loving other countries? I don’t mind you not liking me but I don’t think you should live in our country and like other things. Get your priorities right,” Kohli told a fan while interacting with fans on his newly-launched app.

Kaif, who was on Friday appointed IPL franchise Delhi Daredevils assistant coach, defended Kohli’s comments.

“The unfair targeting of Kohli just shows how statements are twisted according to whatever suits the agenda of people. He has publicly in the past admired sportsman from across the globe & his statement clearly was in a certain context. But mischievous targeting is a norm for a few,” he said.

Meanwhile, after being targeted by all sections of the society for his unsavoury remark, Kohli himself came out to clarify his statement.

“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.”, said the 30-year old.

The Committee of Administrators (COA) is also looking into Kohli’s statement, a report in ANI suggested. Also, the BCCI officials are not impressed with his clarification.