For Virat Kohli, the mental part of batsmanship — visualising game circumstances, feeling intense and sharp at the same time — bears more significance than over-preparation which has never been his mindset.
After a month away from playing for his country, Kohli returned to action in the first match against South Africa, smashing his 52nd ODI and 83rd international century with a brilliant 135 off 120 balls, on Sunday.
“I have never been a believer of a lot of preparation. All my cricket has been mental. I work physically very hard, as long as my fitness levels are up and I am feeling well, it’s good,” in his own unique style, Kohli expressed his feelings to everyone who questions his lack of match time.
Maybe not in as many words but if one reads between the lines of Kohli’s statement, it is not difficult to grasp what he feels about playing in the forthcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, which the national selection committee wants him to do.
“I’ve played 300-odd ODI games and so much cricket, if you’re in touch with the game and are able to hit balls in the practice, if you bat for an hour or two in the nets, you know you’re good. If you’re out of form, you want to play more in the nets. Other than that, it’s about being mentally ready and enjoying the game,” he said.
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Before the other members of the squad convened for this series, Kohli had landed in Ranchi a few days earlier and had a few sessions.
“I wanted to get hold of the conditions in Ranchi. I visualise the game a lot, when I think about the game, if I see myself being intense and sharp, I know I can relax and play out there. I am 37, so, I also need to take care of my body.”
At this stage of his career, it is crucial for him to keep the pure joy of playing and remember why he started playing the sport.
“Today was really nice to get into the game like that. Pitch played decently for 20-25 overs before slowing down. I just wanted to play the ball and enjoy the game of cricket. It was about being in a space of enjoyment. And when you get a start, then the experience kicks in and you’re able to build an innings.”
