Virat Kohli was at his best in the IND vs WI first ODI, amassing an unbeaten 139 runs off 88 balls, including 10 fours and 9 sixes. He recorded a strike rate of 157.95, with India winning by 8 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Chasing 296 runs, the Men in Blue reached the target in 41.4 overs. He also crossed the 15,000-run mark in the fifty-over format and became the fastest batter to reach the milestone.

He spoke to the broadcasting channel after the game and refused to get carried away despite posting a 55th century in one-day internationals.

“My focus is not on milestones. It is about understanding the situation and doing it for the team. I am grateful when achievements come. I keep my head down and work hard. I am thankful to god for the opportunities. We have a blessed journey, as many people want to be here,” he said.

The 37-year-old revealed the reason behind his consistency.

“I understand my game. It is important to be physically fit. I don’t practice a lot, and everything is in the mind. I want to be fit and give my best mentally. I got a challenge to up the ante and bat a gear higher at this stage of my career. You have to unlock a new version at this stage of your career. For a free mind, you need a fit body. A fit mind allows me to visualize the game the way I want,” he added.

Kohli is the most successful ODI batter in the history of the game, but he continues to remain grounded and down to earth.

“It can be easy to forget where you came from, but I don’t. I enjoy every minute playing for India. There was a possibility I couldn’t have played for India. I am living the moments. This is what I always wanted to do and perform for the fans to make them happy,” he highlighted.

Virat also gave an important suggestion to youngsters.

“You have to remind yourself that everything could end after this game. I want to tell the young guys to put their bodies on the line, give their best, and forget everything else,” he explained.

He opened up on his goal.

“We are a year away from the World Cup. Clarity is important, and I know what I am supposed to do. I keep ticking all the boxes. I know that I have some more time to play in this format, but I don’t want to be reckless.”

Shubman Gill also scored a hundred and added 151 runs for the second wicket with Virat. Former India skipper lauded his teammate for his effort with the bat.

There is a reason why he is leading the side. He is willing to take the team to a win from different situations. He is the top ODI batter in the world, and he doesn’t need suggestions. He is up there with the best in the world. When he needs help, I am always available.