Virat Kohli’s bat once again did the talking in Vadodara, but it was his candid reflection off the field that struck a chord after India’s tense four-wicket win over New Zealand in the first ODI. Kohli, who top-scored with a fluent 93 under pressure, opened up about an unusual on-field discomfort that accompanies superstardom, the thunderous cheers that erupt when he walks in to bat immediately after a teammate’s dismissal.
The moment unfolded on Sunday night when Rohit Sharma fell early and Kohli made his way to the middle. The BCA Stadium came alive, with roars that drowned out the disappointment of a wicket lost. The scene was reminiscent of IPL nights in Chennai, where MS Dhoni’s arrival at the crease often triggers louder celebrations than the fall of a wicket itself. Kohli acknowledged that while the affection is understandable, the situation can be awkward and even unsettling for the outgoing batter.
Kohli on crowd behaviour: ‘Not a great feeling for the guy walking back’
Asked about the phenomenon during the post-match presentation, Kohli admitted he was acutely aware of it and not entirely comfortable with such reactions. Drawing a parallel with Dhoni, he said the same dynamic has followed the former India captain throughout his career, particularly in the IPL.
Kohli was measured in his response, stressing that while fan excitement comes from a place of love, it can dent the morale of the player heading back to the pavilion. “I don’t feel good about it. Same thing happens with MS as well. I don’t think it is a good feeling for the guy going out. I do understand the fans getting excited. I don’t think too much about it,” Kohli said at the post-match presentation.
Former CSK all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja had earlier spoken about similar discomfort during his time with the franchise, adding context to Kohli’s remarks.
That said, Kohli was quick to strike a note of gratitude. He described the love he receives as a blessing and spoke about the privilege of living a childhood dream that brings joy to millions. The seasoned batter insisted he does not dwell too much on such moments during a game, choosing instead to focus on the task at hand.
“It’s a blessing, honestly. To give so much happiness to so many people just by doing what you love – playing the sport you’ve loved since childhood – what more can I ask for? I’m living my dream, and seeing people smile makes me happy,” he added.
Player of the Match No. 45 but records don’t stay with Kohli
Kohli’s knock against New Zealand was not just crucial in steering India through a nervy chase, it also earned him his 45th Player of the Match award in ODIs placing him third on the all-time list behind Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya. Yet, true to form, Kohli downplayed the milestone.
He revealed that he does not track individual accolades and prefers to send his trophies home. All his Player of the Match awards, Kohli said, are kept safely by his mother in Gurgaon, who takes pride in preserving them. Overall in international cricket, Kohli is second afte Tendulkar. While Tendulkar has 76 Awards, Kohli has already reached 71. In ODIs, Tendulkar sits at the top with 62 while Jayasuriya is placed second with 48 awards.