Batting virtuoso Virat Kohli once again showcased his exceptional skills, leading India to a five-wicket victory over Australia in the highly anticipated Champions Trophy semifinal. Kohli and his team exorcised the demons of their previous encounter, avenging the disappointment of the 2023 ODI World Cup final by eliminating Australia from the tournament. His presence at the crease was instrumental in guiding the chase, as he adeptly maneuvered singles throughout his innings, placing India in a commanding position.

The distinguished batsman did not depend on boundaries to advance the score; instead, he effortlessly rotated the strike, forming vital partnerships with Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, and KL Rahul.

At 36 years of age, Kohli remarked that his strategy mirrored that of the match against Pakistan, where he achieved his 51st ODI century. 

"I believe it was quite similar to the other day against Pakistan. I scored around seven fours when I reached my hundred. For me, it is essential to comprehend the conditions, adjust my game accordingly, and rotate the strike. Partnerships on this pitch are paramount. My sole focus, both then and now, was to build sufficient partnerships," Kohli stated during the post-match presentation, where he was honored as Player of the Match.

He also acknowledged that he was unable to execute the final plan to conclude the chase independently, as he was dismissed for 84 while attempting a big shot.

"When I got out, the plan was to score 20 more runs and then finish it off in a couple of overs. Typically, that is the approach I adopt, but there are times when execution does not go as intended. It all hinges on the conditions," he added.

Kohli, who has perfected the art of chasing, steadied the Indian innings with a significant 91-run partnership for the third wicket alongside Shreyas Iyer. He elaborated on his approach, noting that engaging in a substantial partnership helped calm his nerves.

"The pitch dictates how the game should be played, and I simply adapt my style accordingly. I did not feel any urgency; I was quite content."

‘Milestones happen along the way towards victory’: Virat Kohli

Kohli was dismissed when India reached a score of 225, attempting an aerial shot off Adam Zampa's delivery, which resulted in his catch by Ben Dwarshuis for a score of 84. He expressed his feelings about missing the milestone, stating that such matters no longer hold significance for him. "When milestones are not the focus, they tend to occur naturally on the path to victory. My priority is to take pride in my contributions and fulfill my responsibilities for the team. If I achieve a century, that is wonderful; if not, victories like this lead to a joyful atmosphere in the dressing room. After such matches, I reflect with gratitude on the events that transpired and then return to the grind, ready to work hard once more. This has been my approach throughout my career. Ultimately, these milestones are not my concern; my focus is on stepping up and performing for the team," he concluded.

Read Also: Dressing Room Drama: Kohli’s Unshakable Faith as He Soothes Rohit After AUS Triumph

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