Kohli: "My personality represents the new India" in cricket

Virat Kohli: The Representative of a “New India” in Cricket

The renowned cricket player Virat Kohli has chosen to distance himself from the label of “most Australian of non-Australians”, preferring to define himself as a symbol of a “new India”. This nation, according to Kohli, is characterized by its ability to face and overcome any challenge. Kohli’s reception during this tour of Australia has been remarkable. Former test players, newspapers, and television channels have focused their attention on Kohli and the impact his absence will have on the upcoming matches.

“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. My personality and character are a representation of the new India. For me, it’s not a comparison with the Australian mentality. It’s how we have started to stand out as the Indian cricket team. My personality has been like this since day one. It 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 with open arms 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”.
Virat Kohli

For the team, the most important thing is that the general public sees India performing as a team, which was a highlight in the previous tour. The main focus remains that. Everything external is not under their control. That’s good for the publicity of the series, but the real and simple focus remains on how well they can perform as a team. The Indian team will allow Kohli to hog all the attention. Ajinkya Rahane, who will take over the leadership when Kohli leaves, has a different personality but promises the same intensity.

“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 do things”.
Virat Kohli

Kohli emphasizes that the team’s performance is a collective effort, a culture shared by all members. He is sure that Rahane will do a great job in his absence.