Virat Kohli Defines Himself as the Image of a “New India” in Cricket
In a statement that evokes the Australian spirit, Virat Kohli has rejected the label of being the most Australian non-Australian player. Instead, the cricketer prefers to identify himself as a representative of a “new India”, which faces all challenges with courage. The reception Kohli has received 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 in the three Test matches he will not play.Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time.
Greg Chappell
However, Kohli feels comfortable being himself. “First of all, I would like to say that I have always been myself,” Kohli stated. “The way my personality and character are, I think it’s a representation of the new India. And that’s how I see it. It’s not a comparison to my Australian mentality or anything like that.”
“For me, it’s the way we’ve started to stand out 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 are prepared for any challenge that comes our way.” Kohli acknowledged that Australia, as a country, welcomes those who perform well on its soil. “I have been touring this place for many years, and it’s a wonderful place to play cricket,” Kohli said. “When you play well here, you earn the respect of the public. Obviously, there will be anticipation and conversation about the desire to see you play. The same goes for Jasprit Bumrah. The last time he played very well here. Obviously, there will be anticipation and excitement to see him bowl. The same goes for me, I have been coming here for many years.”