Virat Kohli reveals reason behind remaining consistent after surpassing Rohit Sharma as highest run-scorer in T20Is

Virat Kohli reveals reason behind remaining consistent: The Indian captain opened up on becoming the highest run-scorer in T20Is.

During the second T20I of the ongoing South Africa’s tour of India in Mohali, India beat South Africa by 7 wickets to gain a 1-0 lead in the series. Indian bowlers conceding only 39 runs in the last five overs made things easy for their batsmen in the second innings.

Speaking during the post-match presentation ceremony, India captain Virat Kohli was wax lyrical about his bowlers restricting the opposition to 149/5. Kohli further laid emphasis on rookie bowlers showing character and ensured them of getting more games for India.

ALSO WATCH: Virat Kohli grabs splendid athletic catch to dismiss Quinton de Kock

“The pitch was very good and an outstanding effort from the bowlers to pull things back. As long as they [young bowlers] show character in difficult situations, they are going to present a strong case for themselves in the future.

“Lot of positive signs for us and they’ll get many more games to prove their mettle. They are going in the right direction,” Kohli was quoted as saying.

Virat Kohli reveals reason behind remaining consistent in international cricket

Coming in to bat at No. 3 in the fourth over, Kohli scored his 22nd T20I half-century to lead another successful chase. Remaining unbeaten till the end, Kohli ended up scoring 72* (52) with the help of four fours and three sixes.

Kohli’s match-winning innings also saw him surpassing vice-captain Rohit Sharma as the highest run-scorer in the format. In 71 T20Is, Kohli has scored 2,441 runs at an average of 50.85 and a strike rate of 135.91. With a difference of 17 runs between them, expect Kohli and Sharma to continue overdoing each other in T20Is.

Being asked about his unmatched consistency at the highest level and what sets him apart from others, Kohli highlighted the privilege of playing for India aiding him in finding desperate ways to take his team past the victory line.

“The badge in front of my shirt – India – it is a pride to play for my country. Whatever it takes, whichever format, to get us across the line, I’ll do that. Adapting in different formats is nothing but a mindset of making your team win.

“If you want to win a game for your team, you will find a way. That’s the most important thing. I never think for myself, it’s always about what the team needs. Test cricket, one-day cricket … the will should be to win the game for your country,” Kohli said.