Kohli: “My Personality Represents the New India” in Cricket

Virat Kohli: A New Chapter for Indian Cricket in Australia

In a statement reflecting his unique approach, Virat Kohli has rejected the label of being the “most Australian non-Australian”. He prefers to define himself 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. Former Test players, media, and television stations have focused their attention on Kohli and the impact his absence will have on the three Test matches he will not play.

“Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time”.

Greg Chappell

Kohli, for his part, feels comfortable being true to himself.

“I mean, I’ve always been myself. 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 mindset. It’s how we have begun to rise as the Indian cricket team. My personality has always been like this from day one. This represents the new India, where we want to take on challenges and move forward with optimism and positivity”.

Virat Kohli

Kohli acknowledges 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 expectation and conversation about wanting to see you play. The same goes for Jasprit Bumrah. The last time he performed very well here. Obviously, there will be expectation and excitement to see him bowl. The same goes for me, I’ve come here for many years”.

Virat Kohli

For the team, the main focus is for the general public to see India perform as a team, which was the highlight of the last tour. External things are not under their control. This is great for the publicity of the series, but the focus remains on how they can perform as a team. The rest of the team is expected to remain discreet, allowing Kohli to hog the limelight. This is especially true for Ajinkya Rahane, who will take over the team’s leadership when Kohli leaves. Kohli assures that there is a great understanding and mutual respect with Rahane.

“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 calm and knows the strengths of our team and how we should do things. The way we’ve played cricket has been a collective effort of the whole team. It’s a cultural effort and not just mine, but of the whole team that has joined. They already know the model we play with and how we want to do things. We are absolutely on the same page”.

Virat Kohli

Kohli trusts that Rahane will do a great job in his absence and believes that this is his moment to shine and perform at his best, both as a player and as a captain.