Bengaluru, Feb. 11: Not long ago, Virat Kohli was known as a hot-headed, brash cricketer unwilling to buckle up. Critics said fame came early as it was hot on the heels of Kohli leading the India Under-19 team to the World Cup in Malaysia in 2007.
But over the past year or so, the 22-year-old has mellowed down so much that it is difficult to believe he is Kohli of the old. The last two years have been exceptional for the Delhi batsman, having become a certainty in the playing XI and risen to No.2 in the latest ICC one-day rankings.
“I think I have learnt from my mistakes and that has been my main goal,” said Kohli on Friday, detailing his transformation.
There is little doubting his talent and the team management has rewarded Kohli by promoting him up the order.
And the youngster has grabbed the opportunity with both the hands. “I was given more responsibility of batting up the order and I had good chance of playing a longer innings if I applied more. These are the few changes I have tried to make in my game. I am really happy the way I have handled myself,” he added.
Being known for his ability to absorb pressure in tough situations, Kohli chose to look at playing in the World Cup as a great opportunity. “Playing any tournament in India we have a bit of pressure, but I won’t like to say that I am under too much pressure. Now that I have got this opportunity, I am eager to give my best,” he said.
The Delhi lad finished the South African sojourn as India’s highest run-getter.