Virat Kohli discussed his strategy during India’s crucial Champions Trophy match against Pakistan, focusing on aggressive batting against pacers while playing cautiously against spinners. His century helped secure a six-wicket victory, almost guaranteeing India’s semifinal spot. Kohli praised his teammates and noted the physical toll the match took on him at 36, expressing gratitude for a week-long break before the next match. He also achieved a career milestone, becoming only the second Indian and third overall to reach 14,000 ODI runs. Kohli emphasized the importance of clarity and maintaining focus amidst high-pressure situations like India-Pakistan matches.
Virat Kohli mentioned that his strategy was to aggressively target the pacers while minimizing risk against the spinners in the intense Champions Trophy match against Pakistan on Sunday. Having guided the team to victory with a brilliant century, his 36-year-old physique is pleased to enjoy a week-long break before the next match. India’s six-wicket triumph over their fierce rivals has almost guaranteed a spot in the semifinals, while it has effectively eliminated the hosts from the tournament. Kohli primarily accumulated his runs by running quick singles and doubles, hitting only seven fours in his unbeaten 100 off 111 balls.
“At 36, a week off is quite beneficial. That level of effort takes a toll on me,” said the superstar, referring to the previous group A match against New Zealand on March 2.
He achieved his 51st ODI century with a boundary off the final ball of the match. Before this crucial encounter, Kohli had faced some challenges against spinners.
“It feels rewarding to bat this way in such a critical game, where a semifinals spot was on the line, especially after Rohit (Sharma) got out (20 off 15 balls). My role was clear – to manage the middle overs, avoid risks against spinners, and take on the pacers.
“I was satisfied with the approach; it’s how I typically play in ODIs,” Kohli stated during the post-match presentation, marking his fourth century against Pakistan.
Kohli also reached a significant milestone in the run chase, becoming the second Indian and the third overall to score 14,000 ODI runs, joining compatriot Sachin Tendulkar (18,246 runs) and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara (14,234 runs).
When discussing his innings, Kohli explained: “I have a solid understanding of my game. It’s about tuning out external noise and managing my energy levels and thoughts.
“It’s easy to get caught up in the expectations and excitement surrounding matches like these (India-Pakistan). I kept reminding myself to give my all while fielding, which is something I take pride in. When you focus and commit to your work, things fall into place.”
He also credited Rohit, Shubman Gill (46), and Shreyas Iyer (56) for successfully taking on the pacers on a challenging pitch.
“Clarity is crucial; when the ball is coming on fast, you need to score quickly. Shubman and Shreyas performed excellently. Everyone has had a solid innings under these conditions, which will bode well for future matches,” he added.
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