Virat Kohli reveals what motivates him to elevate his game against Australia | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Australia’s unwavering competitiveness and remarkable skill set are the reasons that grows the motivation level of Virat Kohli to perform exceptionally well against the Aussies.
Ahead of India’s ICC World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval from June 7 onwards, Virat had an interview with Star Sports where he said, “Australian team is a very competitive side that if you give them even a small window, they will come very hard at you and capitalise. Their skill set is really high. That is the reason my motivation increases even more and I had to take my game to the next level against them. I have to rise and elevate my game against Australia to beat them.”

Kohli has developed a deep fondness for competing against Australia, evident from his impressive statistics. In the 24 Test matches he has played against them, Kohli has amassed 1,979 runs at an average of 48.26. Notably, he has recorded eight centuries and five half-centuries, with his highest score being an impressive 186.
When considering all formats of the game, Kohli’s encounters with Australia extend to 92 matches. He has accumulated a remarkable total of 4,945 runs at an average of 50.97. His highest individual score of 186 stands out prominently. Moreover, Kohli’s consistent brilliance against Australia is exemplified by his tally of 16 centuries and 24 half-centuries against the formidable opponent.

Virat said that the conditions at The Oval will be tough in the final.
“We would not get a flat wicket and batters need to be cautious. We need more focus and have to adapt to the situation and conditions. We will need more focus and discipline while batting,” added Virat.
The batter said that in swinging and seaming conditions of England, it is important how you choose the ball to attack and it is the toughest part of batting there.

“The toughest part about in seaming and swing conditions in England is about choosing the ball you need to hit, defend or leave. Playing with solid technique is important. The balance is very important while batting,” said Virat.
Virat said that “Adaptability is the key” during the WTC final.
“Whichever team is able to adjust and adapt to the conditions, the pitch will win the match,” added Virat.

Virat also talked about the rivalry between India and Australia, which is one of the most fierce rivalries of the sport, no matter the game is being played in India, Australia or a neutral venue.
The batter said that after India won two-Test series against Australia in their own backyard, the rivalry turned to respect.
“In the beginning, the rivalry was seen between India and Australia. But after we won two-Test series in Australia, the Rivalry has turned into Respect. Now when you play against Australia, The respect is visible, that they (India) beat us back-to-back in Tests,” said Virat.
India and Australia have faced off in 106 Tests. India has won 32 matches, Australia has got 44 wins, while 29 matches ended in a draw and one in a tie. With India’s two-Test series wins in Australia over the last few years and their domination at home against the Aussies, India’s record in the last few years has seen improvement.
Out of 16 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia since 1996-97, India has won 10 series, while Australia has won five, with one ending in a draw.
Australia ended at the top of the WTC table with 11 wins, three losses, five draws in 19 matches whereas India ended in second position with 10 wins, five losses and three draws.
(With ANI Inputs)