Virat Kohli: The Representative of “New India” in Cricket
In an environment where comparisons are inevitable, Virat Kohli has rejected the label of being the “most Australian of the non-Australians”. Instead, he prefers to define himself as a symbol of a “new India”, which faces challenges with determination.
The reception Kohli has received in Australia has been unprecedented. Former test players, media, and television channels are only talking about Kohli and the impact of his absence in the three test matches he will not play.
“Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time”.
Greg Chappell
However, Kohli is 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 started 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 face challenges and move forward with optimism and positivity, and be prepared for any challenge”.
Virat Kohli
Kohli acknowledges that Australia embraces those who succeed on its soil.
“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 expectation and conversation about wanting to see you play. Similarly with Jasprit Bumrah. The last time he performed very well here. Obviously, there will be expectation and excitement around him to see him bowl. Similar to me, I’ve been coming here for many years.The Indian team’s main focus is the public’s desire to see India perform as a team, which was the highlight of their last tour. External things are not under their control. That’s good for the series’ publicity, but the focus remains on how well they can perform as a team here.
The Indian team will be happy to go unnoticed and let Kohli take all the attention. This is also valid for the man who will take the reins of the team when Kohli leaves.
Ajinkya Rahane has a completely different personality to Kohli, but the India captain promised similar intensity once he leaves.
“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 do things. The way we have played our cricket has been a collective effort of the whole team. It’s a cultural effort and not just mine, where I strategize and put things in front of people. It’s the whole team that has bought into it. They already know the squad we play with and how we want to do things. We are absolutely on the same page. 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 then on I am quite sure that Jinks will do a tremendous job. I have already said before that I feel this is his moment to really step up and perform strongly as an individual and also as a captain.”
