Kohli on Counterattacking: Prioritizing Intent Over Situation | Quick Digest
Virat Kohli asserted his preference for counterattacking over solely playing the situation, particularly as a No. 3 batter in challenging scenarios. These remarks followed his match-winning 93 against New Zealand in the 1st ODI on January 11, 2026. He also addressed fan behavior, expressing discomfort with cheering a dismissed player's wicket.
Kohli emphasized a counterattacking approach as a No. 3 batsman.
He made these statements after his 93-run knock against New Zealand.
Kohli expressed discomfort with fans cheering dismissed players.
He cited similar crowd reactions observed with MS Dhoni.
The star batter also revealed he sends his Player of the Match awards to his mother.
News was published on January 11, 2026, after the India-New Zealand ODI.
Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli recently articulated his batting philosophy, stating a clear preference for a counterattacking approach over merely playing to the situation, especially when batting at No. 3 in tricky scenarios. These significant remarks came after his impactful match-winning innings of 93 runs off 91 balls against New Zealand in the first One Day International in Vadodara on January 11, 2026. Kohli explained that as the No. 3 batsman, he backs himself to put the opposition under pressure, acknowledging that a cautious approach may not always be effective. This statement highlights his aggressive intent and confidence in shaping the game's momentum.
Beyond his batting strategy, Kohli also addressed a concerning aspect of fan culture during the post-match presentation. He expressed his discomfort with crowds cheering loudly when an opposing or even a teammate's wicket falls, particularly citing the recent dismissal of Rohit Sharma which was met with jubilation by some sections of the crowd. Kohli revealed that he has observed a similar phenomenon with MS Dhoni, where fans cheer for his entry even at the expense of another player's wicket, calling it "not a great feeling" for the outgoing batsman. Despite acknowledging the fans' excitement, he emphasized that it is not ideal for the morale of the player walking back to the pavilion. Furthermore, Kohli shared a personal anecdote, mentioning that he sends his Player of the Match awards to his mother, who proudly collects them. This news story, originally reported by ESPNcricinfo and corroborated by multiple credible Indian news outlets like NDTV Sports, India Today, and The Indian Express, provides insights into Kohli's current mindset both on and off the field.
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