Virat Kohli said personal records cannot be the basis for sustaining a long international cricket career, stressing that his focus has remained on helping India win from difficult situations.
Kohli made the remarks after scoring an unbeaten 139 against the West Indies in the first ODI at the Greenfield International Stadium, where he crossed 15,000 ODI runs and became only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to reach the milestone.
Kohli said that while reaching a major statistical milestone was significant, his priority had always been contributing to the team’s success. He explained that concentrating excessively on personal numbers could come at the expense of the team’s main objective. His 139 helped India chase down West Indies’ 295/7 in 41.4 overs and take an early lead in the three-match series.
Speaking about his relationship with India captain Shubman Gill, Kohli described their camaraderie as relaxed and enjoyable. He said that with Gill now in a leadership role and Kohli serving as a senior player, maintaining a positive atmosphere can help other members of the team remain relaxed even during high-pressure matches. Kohli also highlighted the importance of remaining professional while keeping the team environment light.
Kohli said batting alongside Gill requires little conversation because both players understand their respective roles. He noted that their communication becomes more detailed while fielding, when a captain may have several aspects of the game to consider. Kohli also praised Gill’s understanding of the game and said the young captain has the perspective required to make decisions aimed at helping the team win.
Gill, who scored 110 in the match, also spoke about sharing the crease with Kohli when the veteran batter reached the 15,000-run landmark. Gill recalled watching and idolising Kohli while growing up and said being alongside him during the milestone was a memorable moment. The two added 151 runs for the second wicket during India’s successful chase.
Kohli’s unbeaten 139 came from 88 balls and included 10 fours and nine sixes, while Gill’s 110 was his 10th ODI century. Their partnership helped India complete the chase with 50 balls to spare, giving the hosts an eight-wicket victory and a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.