New Delhi:
Virat Kohli has been a run-making phenomenon ever since he made his debut for India in 2008. In Vizag against West Indies, he created history by beating Sachin Tendulkar’s record to become the fastest to 10,000 runs. His 37th ODI century was also a sign of his consistency in 2018, having scored over 1000 runs in just 11 innings.
Although India could only tie the game against West Indies, the day belonged to Kohli and the multitude of records that he has broken. In an interview to the official BCCI website, Kohli said he did not feel any sense of entitlement after reaching the milestone.
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“You still have to work hard for every run you score. When you are yourself in that position, you should never take things for granted and never take it easy,” Kohli said.
The Indian skipper became the only player in history to hit 1000 runs in both Tests and ODIs for two consecutive calendar years. In 2018, majority of his runs have come in South Africa and England, two places where conditions are difficult. Kohli said this was possible due to tremendous focus.
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“I wanted to take more responsibility and lead from the front. I have been able to push my physical and mental abilities by just focusing on what the team needs,” Kohli said.
Never imagined milestone
Kohli has been the greatest batsman in the modern era, scoring runs against every opponent all over the world. However, the 29-year-old said he had never visualised himself achieving the milestone.
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“I never imagined I’d get to see this stage in my one-day career. I never thought that this day would arrive one day,” Kohli said.
When he had reached 150 for the fourth time in his career, Kohli still ran aggressively and looked to score at every opportunity in conditions that were challenging. However, the skipper said it was his duty to put the team in a great position.
“If I have to dive six times in an over, I will do it for the team. That is my duty and that is why I am selected to play for my country. You have to push for that extra,” Kohli added.
