By Aayush Pathak 19 Oct 2023, 18:18 IST
In a remarkable display of cricketing prowess, Virat Kohli, the Player of the Match, took centre stage and led India to a resounding victory against Bangladesh. Kohli’s statement after the match shed light on his mindset and the team’s collective spirit, providing valuable insights into their approach to the game.
Virat Kohli began his statement with a touch of humility, acknowledging that he felt a bit apologetic for “stealing” the Player of the Match award from his teammate Ravindra Jadeja. He emphasized his desire to make a significant contribution to the team’s success, reflecting his commitment to the Indian cricket team’s cause.
Kohli said, “Sorry for stealing it from Jaddu, I wanted to make a big contribution.”
The Indian cricketing icon then addressed his personal journey in World Cup tournaments, revealing his longing to convert his fifties into centuries. It’s a quest that has motivated him over the years, aligning perfectly with his reputation for being a dependable finisher for the team.
Kohli stated, “I have had a few fifties in World Cups, haven’t really converted them.”
Kohli went on to share the details of his magnificent innings. He scored a brilliant century, amassing 103 runs, and displaying an exquisite batting performance that captivated the audience. His inning was a masterclass, showcasing a blend of technique, precision, and adaptability.
Kohli said, “I wanted to finish the game off this time around and hang on till the end, which is what I have done over the years for the team.”
The former Indian captain also offered insights into his approach to the match. He acknowledged that the pitch conditions were favourable, allowing him to play his natural game. Kohli’s focus on timing, placement, and running between the wickets was pivotal in India’s chase.
Kohli explained, “The pitch was pretty good and it allowed me to play my game – just time the ball, hit the gaps, run hard and get the boundaries whenever needed.”
Virat Kohli touched upon the camaraderie within the Indian team, emphasizing the fantastic atmosphere in the dressing room. He noted the genuine affection and bonding among the players, which is visibly translating into a cohesive and spirited performance on the field.
He added, “There’s a great atmosphere in the change room, we are loving each others’ company, the spirit is there for everyone to see on the field.”
In line with his leadership role, Kohli recognised the importance of building momentum in a long tournament. He expressed the need to foster a positive atmosphere in the changing room, where players can draw inspiration and confidence from one another, ultimately reflecting in their on-field performances.
Kohli highlighted, “We understand it’s a long tournament; you need to create some momentum in the change room for the guys to come out and play like this.”
The Indian cricketing maestro concluded with heartfelt sentiments about playing in front of the home crowd. He acknowledged the special feeling of representing India on home soil and expressed a commitment to make the most of this extraordinary opportunity. “It’s a special feeling playing at home, playing in front of all these people, we just want to make the most of it.”, he said.
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