For me, it's all about taking pride and doing the job for the team – Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has established himself as one of the greatest cricketers to have played ODI cricket. With 14180 runs at an average of 58.11, Kohli has already proven to be an absolute superstar in the format. He scored a brilliant 84 against Australia to spearhead the Indian chase as they knocked out the formidable Australians from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

He won the Player of the Match award in the semi-final which was his second of the tournament after his century against Pakistan. Talking at the post-match presentation, Kohli summed up what it is to be a part of an ODI contest. He brought together all the elements which cumulatively brings out the best in the format.

Virat said, “This game is all about pressure, especially in big games like semis and finals. If you go deep into the innings and have wickets in hand, the opposition usually gives in and the game becomes easier. It is very important to control your impulses while the game is going on. For me it's important to know the number of overs and runs left. Even if the gap is 25-30 and it comes to 6 an over I am not bothered if we have 6-7 wickets in hand.”

When asked whether he is playing his best cricket right now in the format or not, Kohli responded, “I don't know that's up to you guys to break down. I have never focused on those things. When you don't think of those milestones they happen along the way towards victory. For me, it's all about taking pride and doing the job for the team.”

He concluded by stating, “If I get to the three-digit mark, great. If not, nights like these, you win, it's a happy dressing room. You go back, you feel grateful for what happened out there and then you put your head down, work hard and go all over again. That's what I have done all my career. For me, those things don't matter anymore. For me, it's just about stepping up and hopefully doing the job for the team.”