Anchoring Indian victories and addressing press conferences has almost become second nature to Virat Kohli. India's batting hero against Pakistan in the Asia Cup match, said that he rated his 183 along with the unbeaten 133 against Sri Lanka at Hobart, as his two best knocks.
“I put both on par, but yes, today was also special considering the nature of the game,” Kohli said.
The ‘Man of the Match' said that the plan was to string big partnerships and keep six to seven wickets in hand during the final stretch.
“I went in after Gambhir was dismissed and the idea was to get to 130, 140 without losing a wicket. We had to get as close as we can. It's a privilege to bat with Sachin Tendulkar and I have always been a big fan of Rohit Sharma. When he plays those long innings, he makes batting look easy,” Kohli said.
India's latest star in crunch games, again spoke about being calm during crises.
“There have been matches when I have got out in the 42nd over and I did not want to repeat those mistakes. After becoming number three, I value my wicket much more and I know that if I stay at the wicket, the runs will come,” Kohli said.
Thoughts of a double
Asked about whether he thought of scoring a 200, Kohli quipped, “Just once it crossed my mind and I thought this can't be real and I focussed on the game and reacted to the deliveries.”
Kohli's ton was also lauded by Misbah-ul-Haq.
“It was one of the best innings I have ever seen and it was difficult to control him. You got to give credit to the way he batted. We always knew that the Indian batsman are strong and very fluent,” the Pakistan captain said.
He added that he has no preferences about their opponents in the final. “I have no control on that,” he said.
