After steering India to victory in Saturday’s crucial Asia Cup clash against Pakistan, Virat Kohli extolled comeback fast bowler Mohammed Amir for his ferocious opening spell in Mirpur on Saturday.
Kohli scored 49 in a tricky chase of 84 after Amir had reduced India to eight for three within the third over.
“I would like to complement Mohammad Amir for the way he bowled. I actually congratulated him while he was bowling. I was so happy to play such an amazing spell. He is a world class bowler,” Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
Kohli said the conditions were tough for batting and he was determined to rectify the mistakes he committed in the Bangladesh match.
“It wasn’t an easy wicket to bat on, I wasn’t too happy with myself in the last game, where I went too hard at the ball, wanting to continue the way I played in Australia. I had to respect the conditions, I made mistakes in the last innings but I dug in this time.”
Asked about his batting style, Kohli said, “Even if it is a defensive shot, the intent is positive. Counter-attacking is the game I play, that’s why I bat at No 3 but sometimes you have to respect the conditions and play that way.
“It is very important to be able to change your shot at the last moment in such conditions. You need to be switched on mentally, stay calm and relaxed, can’t hit every ball out of park.”
Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said they had thought the Asia Cup would be a tournament for practice ahead of the World T20 but it was turning out to be a tough assignment due to conditions.
PTI