Virat Kohli once again showed why he is regarded as one of the greatest modern-day batters, smashing a masterful 135 off 120 balls to guide India to a 17-run victory over South Africa in the opening ODI at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. Returning to international cricket after a month-long break, Kohli looked refreshed, composed, and mentally sharper than ever as he powered India to a formidable total.
Speaking in a video shared by the BCCI, Kohli opened up about the mindset behind his remarkable consistency. “For me, the core word is awareness. Being aware of situations, being aware of your own feelings and thoughts when you succeed and when you fail. So that you try to be in the most central spot,” he said, reflecting on the mental clarity that has shaped his recent performances.
Kohli emphasized that staying grounded and maintaining emotional balance is just as important as technical preparation. “I have put in considerable work over the years, so yes, I’m in that place now. But I’m still looking to get better every day of my life,” he added, highlighting his relentless pursuit of improvement.
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At the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli reiterated that the mental side of batting—visualizing scenarios, sustaining intensity, and staying sharp—remains far more valuable to him than heavy practice sessions.
“𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲 & 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆”
Virat Kohli on the mental phase he is at at this point of time.#TeamIndia | #INDvSA | @imVkohli | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/j5Nl6ihXQN
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 1, 2025
“I’ve never been a believer in a lot of preparation. All my cricket has been mental. As long as my fitness levels are up and I feel well, it’s good,” he said.
Drawing from over 300 ODIs of experience, Kohli explained that rhythm and touch come naturally when he feels connected to the game.
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“If you bat for an hour or two in the nets and feel good, that’s enough. If you’re out of form, you practice more. Otherwise, it’s about being mentally ready and enjoying the game.” For Virat Kohli, joy remains the foundation of his cricketing journey. “Today was really nice to get into the game like that. I just wanted to play the ball and enjoy the game of cricket,” he said, adding that once he got a start, his experience took over and allowed him to build a match-winning innings.
