India's Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya being greeted by Australian players after their win in the ICC Champions Trophy semifinal, in Dubai, UAE, Tuesday, March 4. PTI
Kohli: I don't think about hundreds, take pride in doing what team wants
Kohli was not able to close the chase against Australia but his 84 off 98 balls went a long way in India comfortably overhauling the 265-run in challenging batting conditions
After guiding India to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on Tuesday night (March 4), Virat Kohli likened his match-winning effort in the semifinal against Australia to the unbeaten hundred against Pakistan and singled out strike rotation as the most important aspect to succeed in the prevailing conditions in Dubai.
Also read: India vs Australia match report
He also said that scoring centuries don't matter to him and his only focus is to do what the team wants from him.
Chase master Kohli
Kohli was not able to close the chase against Australia at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS) but his 84 off 98 balls went a long way in India comfortably overhauling the 265-run in challenging batting conditions.
Photos from India vs Australia semis
Just like the game against Pakistan, quick singles and doubles formed the basis of his innings comprising only five boundaries.
"It (his innings) was pretty similar to the other day against Pakistan. It is about understanding the conditions and rotating the strike because partnerships on this pitch are important," said Kohli after receiving the Player of the match award.
'Pressure' of the game
Kohli's fluent effort included 56 singles and four twos, indicating his exemplary fitness level.
"It all depends on the conditions and then I play my innings. My timing, my composure at the crease, I wasn't rushed. The singles that I took was the most pleasing part for me.
"This game is all about pressure. If you go deep into the game, the opposition usually give in. It is important to control your impulses. Even if the run rate is six an over, I am not bothered," said the Indian superstar.
Arguably the greatest ODI player of all time, Kohli was asked if he is in the best phase of his 50-over career.
"I don't know. That is up to you guys to break down. I have never focused on those things. When you don't think of those milestones, they happen. I take pride in doing what my team wants. If I get to the three-figure mark, great, but the win is important. For me, those things don't matter anymore," added the former India captain.
(With agency inputs)
