Long home season will be career-defining for players: Kohli

Kanpur, Virat Kohli said that India’s upcoming marathon home season, in which they will play 13 Test matches, would “define the careers” of the current team members. A good showing against top teams such as New Zealand, Australia and England would help every player cement his place for a long time, he said.
The three-Test series against New Zealand assumes added significance for India as they will look to regain the No. 1 Test ranking from Pakistan. A 1-0 series win will take India back to the No. 1 spot.
“This season is a phase when we can lay the foundation for the future,” said Kohli. “The challenge in the last one year has been to show composure and get the victories that we require. We have successful and it is important to continue.
“This season will be career-defining for everyone because, hardly ever have we played 17 Test matches at a stretch. We are happy that we can plan our Test cricket. We can back ourselves and get those victories whenever the chance comes. Very exciting times ahead,” he added.
Kohli said that India had the wherewithal to become the best team in the world.
“We believe we have what it takes to be the best. One area we have tapped into is belief. It’s something that a lot of young players lack coming into international cricket. It’s all about getting rid of that feeling. When you step on to the field, you need to tell yourself that I own this position for the next 10 years. That’s the only way you can go out there and express how good you are; that’s what this team has done. More often than not, if you are fearless, you will get the results,” he said.
Kohli also spelt out the reasons for New Zealand’s growing stature in Test cricket. He attributed it to their fearless approach, which was inculcated by former skipper Brendon McCullum.
“They have started playing positive cricket in the last couple of years. They just enjoy the game. I think they have been able to detach themselves from those pressures; that’s why they have got success.”
New Zealand, who have never won a Test series in India, will be hoping to change history under the leadership of Kane Williamson, who said the Kiwis would bank on their energetic brand of cricket.
“We want to go out there and play positive cricket and enjoy ourselves. It’s been a real challenge for some visiting teams here. India are a good side but when we play in that energetic fashion; it gives us the best chance. So, we will certainly be looking to do that,” he said.