4th Test: Kohli Acknowledges Need for Greater Discipline in Recent Innings

Melbourne, Dec 26 (NationPress) Star Indian batsman Virat Kohli has recognized that he has not exhibited sufficient discipline in his recent innings during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Following an unbeaten century in Perth, Kohli has registered scores of 7, 11, and 3, leaving the series currently tied at 1-1.

“If someone had said we would be heading into the Boxing Day Test with the series level at one all, we would have embraced it wholeheartedly. I acknowledge that my last two or three innings have not unfolded as I would have preferred. I admit that I haven’t been disciplined enough to stay in and truly grind it out. That's the challenge that Test cricket presents,” Kohli stated in an interview with former India head coach Ravi Shastri ahead of the first day's play in the Boxing Day Test.

He further highlighted that the pitches in Australia have become more dynamic compared to his previous visits. “Clearly, these pitches are much livelier than during my last tour here. Consequently, a different approach is necessary, and I take pride in adapting to varying conditions and stepping up when my team requires it,” he added.

Kohli emphasized the importance of getting settled at the crease, stating, “The goal is to immerse oneself in the game, to get your eyes acclimated, and to play enough deliveries before you can revert to your natural game, while primarily respecting the conditions.”

On managing the expectations associated with performing well in every match, Kohli explained, “Expectations will always be there, especially when playing for your country and having had a long career. What’s crucial is to comprehend your own strategies and the context you are in.”

“Focusing too much on expectations can divert you from your objectives. Hence, I strive to adhere strictly to my game plan, remain disciplined in my approach, and be mindful of the match situation. This focus has contributed to my success over the years, and I am committed to fulfilling what the team needs from me in the field,” he noted.

“Entering the game early presents a different scenario. If there’s a partnership, I aim to capitalize on that momentum for the team. It’s all about assessing situations and ensuring your game plan is in place,” he added.

India has achieved victories in Test matches in Melbourne during the 2018/19 and 2020/21 seasons, and Kohli feels the series remains competitive. “Indeed, we have played some outstanding cricket here. As I mentioned, we won the last time we played, and the year before that as well. Understanding the current state of the series alleviates individual pressure,” he stated.

“Everything is at stake now. We are tied at one-all and are eager to perform strongly in this Test to take the lead going into the SCG. This promises to be an exciting match as both teams are determined to win, and Australia will bring their best game, as will we. The opportunity lies ahead of us,” he concluded.

“Preventing the follow-on in Brisbane and the way the tail enders contributed significantly was crucial to ensure we didn’t bat again under pressure. Ultimately, the match concluded in a draw despite a challenging situation for us. We have shown resilience and character at critical moments, providing us with another chance to start fresh and tackle this game with the same mindset we had in the first match,” Kohli remarked.

Kohli has an impressive record at the MCG, having accumulated 316 runs over three Tests at an average of 52.66. “This venue holds a special significance for me. From my inaugural tour, I recognized the occasion that the Boxing Day Test represents and it brings back wonderful memories from these matches,” he expressed.

“On my last tour here, we won and went ahead 2-1 in the series, which was memorable. Additionally, I scored a Test century here in the 2014-15 series. I have cherished memories of this ground, not just in Test matches but in other formats as well. It’s a remarkable venue to compete,” he concluded.