Kohli: “My personality reflects the new India” in cricket

Virat Kohli: A Leader Who Embodies the New India

In a context of great anticipation, Virat Kohli has rejected the label of being the “most Australian non-Australian”, preferring to define himself as a representative of a “new India”. This new India, according to Kohli, “faces” all challenges. The reception for Kohli on this tour of Australia has been unprecedented. Former Test players, newspapers, and television stations have focused their attention on Kohli and the impact his absence will have on the three Test matches he will not play.

“Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time”.

Greg Chappell

Despite these comments, Kohli remains true to himself. “I have always been myself,” Kohli stated. “My personality and character represent the new India. I don’t see it as a comparison to the Australian mentality.”

Kohli emphasizes how the Indian cricket team has begun to “stand its ground” and how its personality has been that way from the beginning. For him, this represents a new India that seeks to face challenges with optimism and positivity. Kohli also acknowledged that Australia embraces those who perform well on its soil. “When you perform well here, you earn the respect of the public,” Kohli said. “There will be anticipation and conversation around wanting to see you play.”

The team’s focus, according to Kohli, is on the public’s desire to see India perform as a team, something that was the highlight of the last tour. “All external things are not under our control. That’s great for the series’ publicity, but the focus really and simply remains on how well we can perform as a team here.” With Kohli out, the team trusts that other players will take the lead. Ajinkya Rahane, with a personality different from Kohli’s, promises to maintain the intensity. Kohli spoke about the mutual understanding and respect he has with his vice-captain. “We’ve had great partnerships batting together, based on trust and understanding of what the team needs. Jinks has done a tremendous job in the two practice matches. He seems very calm and knows the strengths of our team and how we should do things.” Kohli emphasizes that the team’s playing style is a collective effort, not just a personal strategy. “You know the model we play with and how we want to do things. We are absolutely on the same page.” Kohli is confident that Rahane will do a great job in his absence and feels it is Rahane’s time to “step up and perform strongly as an individual and also as a captain.”