In a tone that evokes the Australian spirit, 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 challenges with determination.
The reception Kohli has received on this tour of Australia has been unprecedented, with former test players, newspapers, and television channels focusing on him 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
Kohli, however, feels comfortable being himself.
First of all, I would like to say that I have always been myself. The way my personality and character are, I think it is a representation of the new India. And that’s how I see it. It’s not so much in my mind a comparison to being similar to the Australian mentality or anything like that.
Virat KohliFor Kohli, this represents the way the Indian cricket team has begun to “stand its ground.” His personality has always been like that from the beginning, and this reflects the new India, where they seek to face challenges with optimism and positivity.
Kohli also acknowledged that Australia welcomes those who perform well on their 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 anticipation and conversation around wanting to see you play. Similarly with Jasprit [Bumrah] as well. Last time he performed very well here. Obviously, there will be anticipation and excitement around him to see him bowl. Similar to me, I have come here for many years.
Virat Kohli
For the Indian team, the most important thing is for the general public to see India acting as a team, which was the highlight of their last tour. The focus remains on that, while external factors are not under their control.
Knowing how the Indian team is, the rest will be happy to go unnoticed and let Kohli take all the attention. This is also valid for the man who will take command 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 approach things.
Virat Kohli
In fact, the way they have played cricket has been a collective effort of the entire team. It’s a cultural effort and not just because I’m planning things and presenting them to people. The whole team has joined in. They already know the template we play with and how we want to do things. We are absolutely on the same page.
Kohli is sure that Rahane will do a tremendous job in his absence, but the focus will remain on providing captaincy, leadership, and performances as a player in the best possible way until he is present. Then, he trusts that Rahane will do a tremendous job. Kohli has said before that he feels this is Rahane’s time to step up and perform strongly as an individual and also as a captain.
