Virat Kohli: The “New India” Faces Challenges
In the context of the Australia tour, Virat Kohli has chosen to define himself as a representative of the “new India.” This stance implies a nation that “stands up” to any challenge, rather than accepting the label of being the quintessential non-Australian Australian. The reception for Kohli on this Australian tour 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.However, Kohli is comfortable being himself. “Firstly, I would like to say that I have always been myself,” Kohli said. “The way my personality and character is, I think it is a representation of the new India. And for me, that’s how I see it. It is not in my mind a comparison to being similar to the Australian mentality or anything like that.” “For me, it’s about how we’ve started to stand up for ourselves as the Indian cricket team. And my personality has always been like this from day one. This for me is a representation of the new India, where we want to take on challenges and move forward with optimism and positivity and make sure we’re ready for any challenge that comes our way.” Kohli acknowledged that Australia, as a country, welcomes those who are successful on its lands. “I have been touring this place for many years and it is a wonderful place to play cricket,” Kohli said. “When you perform well here, you earn the respect of the public. Obviously, there will be anticipation and conversation around wanting to see you play. Similarly to Jasprit [Bumrah] as well. The last time he performed very well here. Obviously, there will be anticipation and excitement around him to see him bowl. Similarly to me, I have been coming here for many years.Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time.
Greg Chappell