‘It was the test of physical and mental strength’, says Virat after century against England

Virat Kohli scored a gritting 149 as India pulled themselves back into the match on the second day of the first test against England.

The Indian captain finally silenced his critics as he showed immense patience and strength in scoring an extraordinary 149 against England in the first test. With this innings, he also broke free of the shadows of his disastrous England tour of 2014.

Virat’s century on the second day of the test match pulled India back into the match, after the team struggled at five wickets for 100 runs, while trailing by 189 runs in the first innings.

After the day’s play, Virat Kohli spoke to BCCI in an exclusive interview on his innings. Virat stressed that he’s proud to have played this innings and help the team.

“I tried to play the best way I can and help my team in the best way possible,” said Kohli.

“It wasn’t only about getting into the three figure mark but to continue from there on. I was very disappointed when I got out. We could’ve taken a 10-15 run lead. But in hindsight we wouldn’t have been able to bowl then,” the Indian captain said.

Virat admitted that playing in the conditions was difficult, but he took it as a challenge.

“It was difficult, but I told myself to enjoy and take it on as a challenge. Take the team far and it was the test of physical and mental strength. But I’m glad that we came close to their total and [we are] pretty much in the game,” stated Kohli.

Virat Kohli also praised the tail-enders for their terrific performance and the ability to stick by and help the team in difficult conditions.

“When you can help the team it obviously feels great. But I’ve to commend the tail as well. Hardik batted really well when we lost the first five [wickets].

“Ishant and Umesh also applied themselves, so I think it was an outstanding effort. I’ve to give a lot of credit to them for getting us this close. They got stuck in there and supported me really well.

“I’m really proud of both of them and I’m really happy,” said Virat.

Virat was also asked whether he believes that this was his best test innings.

“I’m not sure. It’s good, but [the knock] would be second to Adelaide [innings]. Adelaide will also remain very close to me because it was the second innings [and] we were chasing the target. We had total clarity that we are going towards the target.

“But I’m really happy and grateful for the opportunity to be helping the team this way and pull us back in the test match.

“That’s what we are here to do. We are here to compete and to fight,” insisted Kohli.

Here is the link to the interview –