Indian limited overs vice-captain Virat Kohli has opened up about his involvement in sledging against the Australians, stating that it just involves a bit of fun and such things don’t bother him. He mentioned that he is feeling good as he is contributing to the team at the moment.
The Indian Test skipper said that the banter on the field between the two sides has been more friendly this time around when compared to when they met last year.
“I don’t go to the field thinking I want to fight with someone today. I am in a good headspace where I am contributing to the team. And it is not an argument on the field. It’s been different this time than last time, rather than swearing or bad words, it is just fun.
“People watching should have some fun as well. My focus is to go out there and perform, as these things don’t bother me,” said Kohli.
Kohli not concentrating on statistics
The 27-year-old also spoke about how he still considers himself to still be a club cricketer despite a stellar international career so far. He feels that as long as she scores as many runs as possible, individual statistics will take care of themselves.
“I still think of myself as a club cricketer who wants to do well in every game. That’s the mindset I had when I hadn’t played state cricket for Delhi yet. I just wanted to go and win every match for my academy team and score as many runs as possible. That was what I was taught by my coach and something that I have been lucky to be able to remember.
“Statistics will take care of themselves on the sidelines. I just feel grateful that I am in that position and that I remember what got me into that position,” added Kohli.
“Surreal to think of comparisons to Viv Richards”
Kohli has been often compared to legendary West Indian batsman Sir Vivian Richards for the manner of his batting, but the Delhi-born batsman feels that he is not worthy of the comparison because of the way Richards played the game.
Speaking about it, Kohli said: “It is surreal to think of comparisons. I have always thought that it was tougher for the greats of the game because we have better protective gear today. I can’t think of playing in a cap and Sir Viv always did. He smacked fast bowlers for sixes all over the world and even thinking about it sends chills down your spine.”
India face Australia in the final ODI of the 5-match series on Saturday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and the visitors will be keen to avoid a series whitewash.
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