Kohli bares his secrets
You do it in practice but more importantly try and do them in one or two matches. If you execute in matches then your confidence goes up. You have to keep your mind open. Many players have a mindset that they will only play a certain way. But if an opposition figures you out, you have to stay ahead and that is how you remain consistent.
VIRAT KOHLI
INDIA CAPTAIN
India's batting maestro Virat Kohli is known for his steady resolve and endurance in the most difficult of chases.
During a live Facebook chat with Bangladesh ODI captain Tamim Iqbal, he talked about that 'pure intent' from childhood which helped him build his vast reserve of mental stamina and gave a glimpse of many of his secrets.
While Tamim had meant for the talk between the two to be an entertaining one, with people across the country in lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, it turned out to be an educational one for any serious cricketer out there.
If Kohli's resolve is stone-cold, his mindset is more versatile and adaptable than what most would anticipate. He does not focus on one true formula in order to improve his game. Many established cricketers define and confine themselves to a certain way. Kohli understood early that what works for one person does not necessarily work for another.
But he is the most successful run-getter of modern era and thus he must be doing something right. So, the Bangladesh cricketers had their questions lined up for the Indian maestro. "They want to know some things about you and they are all cricket related," Tamim began.
Like any other batsman, functionality was in Kohli's mind but he admitted that natural talent is not what everyone can rely upon.
Asked about how he started shuffling in the crease after having stayed still during the beginning of his career, Kohli revealed an innate desire to remain ahead of the game.
"I felt I needed to play all over the ground and the static position somehow made my options limited. It didn't work for me but for many it does. Sachin Tendulkar used to remain static and he never had a problem as his hand-eye coordination and technique was much superior.
"I had to bring changes little by little during different points in time. I don't understand until I try and if you ever feel that you need to try something then you should do it. You do it in practice but more importantly try and do them in one or two matches. If you execute in matches then your confidence goes up. You have to keep your mind open. Many players have a mindset that they will only play a certain way. But if an opposition figures you out, you have to stay ahead and that is how you remain consistent. Any batsman should remain open to positive change and if it doesn't work you can get back to what you used to do," he told Tamim.
It revealed much about what one needs to do to be successful in the modern game. Kohli said that he does not have a set pattern for preparation with the only exception being diet and fitness.
"Everyone has a different template [for preparation]," he pointed out. "You can't remain intense all the time. If you have a good mental state then you go to matches with a good feeling and with confidence. We can all play cricket but sometimes we overcomplicate things and pressure ourselves."
Kohli's understanding of the game is an example for everybody but while talking about various issues, he gave a peak into where it all emanates from -- the urge to compete and win.
"While young, I would watch matches on TV and when India didn't win while chasing, I always used to think I could make the team win if I was there. That joy and intent comes out when I chase," Kohli said, and his intent is something that any cricketer can learn from.
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