Virat Kohli: A Leader Who Embodies the New India in Cricket
In a highly anticipated sporting context, Virat Kohli has rejected the label of being the “most Australian non-Australian”, preferring to define himself as a representative of a “new India”. This India, according to Kohli, is characterized by its ability to face challenges with courage and determination.
The reception Kohli has received during this tour of Australia has been unprecedented. Kohli’s absence in the three test matches has generated a great debate and analysis.
Kohli is the most Australian non-Australian cricketer of all time.
Greg Chappell
Kohli, however, feels comfortable being true to himself. “I have always been myself,” he stated. “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 also acknowledged the hospitality that Australia provides to those who excel on its lands. “I’ve been touring here for many years, and it’s a wonderful place to play cricket,” Kohli said. “When you perform well here, you earn the respect of the public. There is anticipation to see you play. The same goes for Jasprit Bumrah, who had a great performance here last time. For me, who has been coming here for many years…”Virat Kohli tiene varios temas que abordar antes de la serie de pruebas. AFP vía Getty Images“For us, the most important thing is that the general public sees India perform as a team, which was the highlight of our last tour. Our focus remains on that. All external things are not under our control. That’s great for the publicity of the series, but the real and simple focus remains on how well we can perform as a team here.”
Knowing the Indian team, it is likely that other players will prefer to stay on the sidelines and allow Kohli to hog the limelight. This also applies to the man who will take over the team’s leadership when Kohli leaves. Ajinkya Rahane, with a completely different personality from Kohli, promises to maintain the same intensity.
“We’ve had a lot of understanding and mutual respect over the years,” Kohli said of his vice-captain. “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 composed and knows the strengths of our team and how we should do things.”
“The way we’ve played cricket has been a collective effort from the whole team. It’s a cultural effort and not just because I’m strategically organizing things and presenting them to people. It’s the whole team that has participated in it. They already know the squad we play with and how we want to do things. We are absolutely on the same page.”
“I’m sure he’ll do a tremendous job in my absence, but the focus remains on providing captaincy, leadership, and performance as a player in the best way possible until I’m here, and then, I’m sure Jinks will do a tremendous job. I’ve already said before that I feel this is his moment to step up and perform at his best as an individual and also as a captain.”
