Ahead of the ODI series against Australia, which begins on Sunday, October 19, at the Optus Stadium in Perth, star batsman Virat Kohli talked about his preparations. With Virat Kohli as a vital member of India’s batting lineup and Shreyas Iyer as vice-captain, Shubman Gill will lead the team.
Virat Kohli disclosed that he had hardly taken a vacation from cricket in the last fifteen years. The four-month hiatus from professional cricket was something he stated he genuinely enjoyed. The experienced batsman will be playing in his 500th international match for India, and his longtime opening partner Rohit Sharma will be playing in his 551st.
Since I have played cricket so often over the past 15 to 20 years, I must admit that I have rarely had a true rest. In the past 15 years, when you add international cricket and the IPL together, I’ve likely played more matches than nearly anyone.
Thus, for me, this vacation was really quite rejuvenating,” Virat Kohli told Fox Cricket.
“I feel more fit than ever before, if not more fit than before. When your cerebral knowledge of the game is so strong and only the physical training needs to be maintained, there’s a genuine sense of freshness. My game awareness is already there at this point in my career if my body is in shape and my reactions are quick. All my body needs to do is keep up with it, and I strive to do that. That’s how I live my life, and I have no problems at the moment. I’m moving good in the nets and during fielding practices, and I feel rejuvenated as I enter Australia. It’s going well so far,” he continued.
On Australian soil, Virat Kohli likes to play cricket.
Speaking about his love of playing cricket in Australia, the 36-year-old veteran admitted that it is always difficult to perform there. He went on to say that Perth has been a legendary location for many years. It’s a laid-back setting with a pitch that has good bounce and pace, which he has always loved play in.
“Being back in Australia, where I’ve truly enjoyed playing cricket, is always a pleasure. Many battles and hard-fought cricket matches have occurred over the years, and I’ve learned that if you play hard and competitively, even when you’re facing the opposition, you will eventually win their respect. Playing here, I had the exact same experience. The stadium in Perth holds some wonderful memories for me. I enjoy coming here because it’s a really pleasant and laid-back setting. I have always liked the wickets’ pace and bounce, which make them lovely to bat on,” Kohli remarked.