We believe in our skills, need to carry on the momentum: Virat Kohli

Indian star batsman Virat Kohli today spoke about the preparations and the chances of the Indian team at the World T20 ahead of India’s first clash with New Zealand in Nagpur.

Kohli said that the team is pretty confident going into the tournament because of the recent performances and the momentum that they will carry into the World Cup.

“The teams from both the groups are strong, and we would like to focus on our skills rather than brooding too much on what the opposition does. We have been successful in the recent past, and will look to continue the same process here too’” Kohli said.

The Indian number 3 also said that the vibe is very different from any bilateral tournament, and the key is to remain calm during the journey.

“The key is to learn from past experiences. There are bound to be focus shifting incidents going around, but we have to maintain a healthy balance and develop astute awareness. We cannot mull over what other teams are doing and lose sleep,” said Kohli.

Virat made a comparison to the 2011 Cricket World cup and said that the experience from the event will certainly help the team.

“T20 format requires different skill-set, but then we expect the pressure being the hosts. I believe that the field is the best getaway from all the hype and pressure and it is on the field where one can express his talent and preparation”, hee further said.

The role of different players:

Commenting on the role of different players, Kohli said, that the roles are clearly defined and the players are aware of it.

“Shikhar (Dhawan) is pretty aware of his role as someone who has to take the bowling on and exploit the powerplay, Rohit(Sharma) and myself are more aware and try to build a solid base and we understand when to take a back step if the other batsman is playing fluently”, Kohli said further.

The Delhi dasher also said that Shami has been a good bowler for them both with both the new and old ball, and ever since he made his comeback his is looking good. He, however, stopped short of commenting on the team composition but said that it will be difficult to fiddle around with a team that has done well and won matches.

The Indian test captain who is enjoying a great run in the format also praised the Indian Premier League for grooming youngsters like Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah.

“The IPL has allowed them to be confident with their skills without bothering too much about the opposition. Their mental set-up is different now.”

Playing down the added pressure being at home, Kohli maintained that he looks at this pressure as on opportunity to stand up and be counted. “ If you are playing at home, and are playing well, you are bound to be dubbed as favourites. It is important to stay focused and believed that you can make a difference.”

India are clubbed in a group which consists of New Zealand, Australia, Bangladesh and Pakistan.