Virat Kohli: The Representative of “New India” in Cricket
The renowned cricketer, Virat Kohli, has rejected the label of being the “most Australian non-Australian”. Instead, he identifies as a representative of a “new India” that faces all challenges with determination. Kohli’s reception in Australia has been unprecedented. Former Test players, newspapers, and television channels have focused their attention on Kohli and the impact his absence will have in the three Test matches he will not play.Kohli, for his part, feels comfortable being himself. “I have always been myself,” Kohli affirmed. “My personality and character are a representation of the new India. For me, that’s how I see it. It’s not a comparison to the Australian mentality.” The player highlighted the importance of the Indian team’s attitude. “It’s about how we’ve started to stand up as the Indian cricket team. My personality has always been like this from day one. This is a representation of the new India, where we want to face challenges and move forward with optimism and positivity, making sure we are prepared for any challenge.” Kohli acknowledged that Australia, as a country, usually welcomes those who are successful on its soil. “I’ve been touring this place for many years, and it’s 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 about the desire to see you play.” The Indian team’s focus, according to Kohli, is on collective performance. “Our focus remains that. All external things are not under our control. That’s great for the series’ publicity, but the real and simple focus remains on how well we can perform as a team here.” India captain Ajinkya Rahane will take over the team’s leadership after Kohli’s departure. Kohli trusts Rahane to continue the team’s intensity. “We’ve had a lot of understanding and mutual respect over the years,” Kohli said of 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 composed and knows our team’s strengths and how we need to do things.” “I’m sure he’ll do a tremendous job in my absence, but the focus remains, while I’m here, to provide captaincy, leadership, and performances as a player as best I can, and from there, I trust that Jinks will do a tremendous job. I’ve said before that I feel this is his time to step up and perform strongly as an individual and also as a captain.”“Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time”.
Greg Chappell, Former India Coach
