Kohli: “I am the new India”, challenging Australia in cricket

Virat Kohli: A Leader Forged in the New India

In a tone reminiscent of the Australian attitude, Virat Kohli has rejected the label of being the “most Australian non-Australian”. He prefers to identify himself as a representative of a “new India” that faces challenges with determination. Kohli’s reception in Australia has been unprecedented. Previous Test players, newspapers, and television stations are only talking about him 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

Kohli, however, feels comfortable being himself.

“I have always been myself. My personality and character represent the new India. For me, that’s how I see it. It’s not a comparison with the Australian mentality. It’s how we have begun to stand out as the Indian cricket team. My personality has always been like this from day one. This represents the new India, where we want to take on challenges and move forward with optimism and positivity.”

Virat Kohli

Kohli acknowledges that Australia welcomes those who are successful on their lands.

“I’ve been touring this place for many years and it’s a wonderful place to play cricket. When you perform well here, you earn the respect of the public. Obviously, there will be anticipation and conversation about seeing you play. Similarly with Jasprit Bumrah. Last time he performed very well here. There will be anticipation and excitement to see him bowl. Similarly to me, I’ve been coming here for many years”.

Virat Kohli

The Indian team’s focus, according to Kohli, is on collective performance. “For us, the most important thing is that the general public wants to see India perform as a team, which was the highlight of our last tour. Our focus remains on that. All external things are not under our control. That’s great for the publicity of the series, but the focus really and simply remains on how well we can perform as a team here.” In the absence of Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane will take charge of the team. Kohli has expressed his confidence in his teammate.

“We have had a lot of understanding and mutual respect over the years. We have had great partnerships batting together, which are based on trust and understanding of what is needed for the team. Jinks has done a tremendous job in the two practice matches. He seems to be very calm and knows the strengths of our team and how we should approach things. I am sure he will also do a tremendous job in my absence, but the focus remains on the time I am here to provide captaincy and leadership and performances as a player in the best possible way, and from there I am pretty sure Jinks will do a tremendous job. I feel this is his moment to really step up and perform strongly as an individual and also as a captain.”

Virat Kohli