Virat Kohli: The Representative of a “New India” in Cricket
The renowned cricketer, Virat Kohli, has refused to be labeled as “the non-Australian Australian”, preferring to identify himself as a symbol of a “new India”. This “new India” is characterized by facing challenges with courage. The reception Kohli has received in Australia has been unprecedented. Former players, media outlets, and television stations have focused their attention on Kohli and the impact his absence will have on the upcoming matches.Kohli, true to his style, feels comfortable being himself. “I have always been myself,” Kohli affirmed. “My personality and character reflect the new India. For me, it’s not about a comparison with the Australian mentality, but about how the Indian cricket team has begun to face challenges.” The player acknowledged that Australia welcomes those who excel in its lands. “Playing here is wonderful. When you perform well, you earn the respect of the public. There is anticipation to see you play. The same goes for Jasprit Bumrah. I have been coming here for many years.”“Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time”.
Greg Chappell
The Indian team’s main focus is collective performance. Kohli highlighted the importance of the public seeing India triumph as a team, something that was key in the previous tour. “The most important thing is that the general public wants to see India perform as a team. All external things are not under our control. That’s great for the series’ publicity, but the focus remains on how we can perform well as a team here.”
When Kohli retires, Ajinkya Rahane will take over the team’s leadership. Kohli trusts Rahane and his ability to maintain intensity. “We have had a lot of understanding and mutual respect over the years. We have 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 calm and knows the strengths of our team and how we should do things.” Kohli emphasized that the team’s success is a collective effort, a shared culture. “I am sure he will do a tremendous job in my absence, but the focus remains on providing captaincy, leadership, and performances as a player in the best possible way, and then I am quite 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.”
