Virat Kohli: An Icon of Cricket Defines a “New India”
In a sporting context marked by expectations and analysis, Virat Kohli has expressed his vision on his role and that of the Indian team. Instead of accepting the label of “the non-Australian Australian”, Kohli prefers to identify himself as a representative of a “new India”, one that faces challenges with determination.
Kohli’s reception during this tour of Australia has been remarkable. Former Test players, media, and television channels have focused their attention on Kohli and the impact of his absence in the matches he will not play.
“Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time.”
Greg Chappell, former India coach
Kohli, for his part, feels comfortable being himself. “I have always been myself,” he stated. “My personality is a representation of the new India. We see how the Indian cricket team has begun to face challenges. My personality has been like this since day one.”
In addition, Kohli acknowledged the warm welcome that Australia gives to those who excel in its territory. “When you perform well here, you earn the respect of the public,” he said. “There is anticipation to see us play. The same goes for Jasprit Bumrah. There is also anticipation and excitement to see him bowl.”
For the team, the most important thing is for the public to see India perform as a team, something that was key in the last tour. The focus remains on that. External aspects are not under their control, although they are good for the publicity of the series. The focus is on how they can perform as a team.
The Indian team, as expected, will be willing to take a back seat and allow Kohli to take center stage. This is especially true for Ajinkya Rahane, who will assume the team’s leadership when Kohli leaves.
Kohli highlighted the good relationship with his vice-captain. “We have had a lot of understanding and mutual respect over the years,” Kohli said about his second-in-command. “Jinks has done a tremendous job in the two practice matches. He seems to be very calm and knows the strengths of our team.”
Kohli added that the team’s success is a collective effort. “The whole team has bought into the idea. They already know the model we play with and how we want to do things. We are absolutely on the same page.”
The captain is confident that Rahane will do a great job in his absence. “I am sure he will do a tremendous job in my absence, but the focus remains, until I am here, to provide captaincy and leadership and performances as a player in the best possible way, and from there, I am pretty 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.”
