Keeping emotions in control important part of my game: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, intensely scrutinized, is able to stay away from the clamor and pressure. He shared his way of doing this, and how he was overwhelmed by Rohit Sharma's celebration of India's win over Pakistan. Kohli also discussed how he prepared for the match and his words of wisdom to the team. Rahul Dravid, knowing Kohli's prowess, asked him to address the team huddle. Kohli shared his advice on how to handle pressure and how to think positively.

Very few cricketers have been as intensely scrutinised as Virat Kohli but even for a boss personality like him, it is tough to seclude himself from all that attention.

The way an entire nation obsessively waited for Kohli’s record equalling 49th ODI century was scary even. Just maybe, we were more relieved that Kohli finally went level with Sachin Tendulkar than the man himself.

But pressure seems a stimulant for him to go higher, and Kohli gave a peek into his mind, his way of staying away from the clamour.

“I always wanted to keep my emotions and feelings in control. It is a very important part of my game. So, I keep that awareness ahead of the match,” said Kohli on Star Sports.

Of course, a congratulatory message from Tendulkar can still race his heart and turn his eyes misty.

The other time Kohli was overwhelmed was when a normally stoic Rohit Sharma celebrated with gusto India’s win over Pakistan at Melbourne in the T20 World Cup 2022.

“I have played with Rohit for a long time but I have not seen him express so much,” said Kohli.