Virat Kohli: We are equipped enough to tackle Mitchell Johnson

Virat Kohli

India’s stand-in captain Virat Kohli is putting on a confident face before the Test series against Australia. The 26-year-old has said that if the mindset of the Indian batsmen was right, then there was every chance of the visitors doing well down under.

Former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly had recently slammed India’s preparation for the Australian tour, stating that the team must be spending more time in Australia before the first Test on December 4. Kohli, on the other hand, says conditions are something that the team can get used to soon.

“I think coming to Australia and playing, it’s more about the mindset rather than getting used to the conditions, because pace and bounce is something which you can get used to. But unless you’re mentally there, there’s no point of any sort of practice,” Kohli said.

The Delhi batsman praised Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson for his recent form, but added that the Indian batsmen would be able to handle the ICC Cricketer of the Year if they’re mentally prepared to face some pace and bounce.

“He’s been bowling really well, everyone knows that. Credit to him for doing all that. We are equipped enough to tackle him on these pacy and bouncy wickets. I don’t see any good reason why we can’t come up and put up a good fight.

“It’s all about mentally being there. If you can visualise being in that battle and being on top, I think you’re going to be able to go out there and execute it. I think the guys in our team have the ability to do it. It’s all about being mentally present,” the RCB captain said,