Indian icon Virat Kohli has always been a player who thrives in high-pressure situations. Recently, he voiced his admiration for the Champions Trophy format, explaining that it’s a tournament that forces the top eight cricketing nations to consistently bring their best to the table in order to remain competitive. India are set to kick off their Champions Trophy campaign by facing Bangladesh in their opening match on Thursday in Dubai.
“Honestly, I have always liked this tournament a lot. Because, it is a representation of how consistently you play cricket for a year or two. When you are in the top eight rankings, then you get this reward for playing this tournament. So, a level of competition is always good in this. And I remember, this has always been a very competitive tournament," Kohli said on Star Sports.
Virat Kohli recalled India’s first match against Bangladesh in the World Cup 2011.
"And the last time we played an opening match against Bangladesh in the ICC tournament (World Cup 2011), it was obviously good for us as we won the tournament. I have good memories of that."
"And, as I said, if you apply the T20 World Cup pressure in the ODI format, then it's very similar. Because, you have three-four matches there as well. So, if you do not start well, you get under pressure. So, I think the first couple of games are very crucial. And, it is very important to bring your A-game in that. And, that is why I like it. Pressure is there from the first match, so you have to be at your best," he concluded.
India are entering the Champions Trophy on the back of a resounding 3-0 ODI series win against England. And, Virat Kohli, who has scored 529 runs in Champions Trophy, will look to contribute heavily for team's success.