Major takeaways from Virat Kohli's pre-match press conference ahead of World Cup match against South Africa
Don't take injury-hit South Africa lightly
India captain Virat Kohli said that even with two South African pacers--Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi--ruled out of the match on Wednesday, the Proteas would be a "very dangerous side" on their day and would not like to take the opponent lightly.
We need to approach the game focusing on our strengths, said Kohli.
India are set to open its 50-over campaign against Faf du Plessis-led side on June 5 at the Rose Bowl.
Kedar Jadhav is fit
Kohli also declared that batting all-rounder Kedar Jadhav is fit.
Replying to a question on the injured Jadhav, Kohli said that the all-rounder is back to full fitness.
Kohli said that Jadhav is batting well in the nets.
Starting tournament late is advantage for India
India are the only team which has not played a single game so far.
When asked whether it will turn out to be an advantage or create problems for the team, Kohli said it has been an advantage as they got an opportunity to learn and absorb from other nine teams.
"It's an advantage, understanding how the games have gone, what the conditions have to offer, what the overcast conditions bring into play, when the sun's out it's a totally different ball game altogether. What's the pace of play when you see other teams playing. What the approach is. From that point of view, we have a lot to absorb and learn from."
Kohli replies on expectations
The skipper of the Indian team said dealing with people's expectations have become a part of his process now.
"Look when you perform for a long time, expectations will always be there. I sort of understand how to go along with the expectations. You don't go out there to prove anything to anyone, that's a fact but dealing with the expectations is a part of my process now," Kohli said.
Virat on his side's strength
"We have selected a side that gives us all kind of options. Depending on the conditions we are going to play. Somewhere you might see three seamers playing, somewhere two wrist-spinners, one wrist-spinner and one finger spinner playing together," said Kohli during the press conference.
"Looking at the pitch now we'll have discussions over what the balanced combination would be. We are equipped to handle all kind of conditions here," he added.
Team needs to be mentally & physically stronger
The skipper said that the team needs to be mentally and physically throughout the tournament.
Kohli says, "We will have to be mentally and physically stronger than the opposition, that’ll be our focus."
Virat on Rabada calling him 'immature'
South African pacer Kagiso Rabada called Indian skipper Kohli as "immature" some days back and said that the Indian skipper cannot handle abuse.
However, Kohli said that if anything needs to be discussed, he is willing to do it face to face with Rabada.
He even lauded Rabada for the skills he possesses and said the batting lineup needs to be respectful against such a world class bowler.
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