Asia Cup 2023: Kohli wary of Pakistan’s ‘talented’ bowling attack

KARACHI: Indian’s star batter Virat Kohli has told his teammates to be at their “absolute best” while facing Pakistan’s impactful bowling attack.

In an interview released by official broadcasters of the Asia Cup ahead of the high-voltage India Pakistan game, the Indian batter said that it is always an exciting challenge to play against Pakistan.

“It’s an exciting challenge every time you play against Pakistan because they’ve a lot of talent in their team, they are a quality team overall,” Kohli said in the interview.

The former Indian skipper praised Pakistani bowlers and their ability to change the pace of game any time.

“I feel bowling is their strength, and they’ve got some really impactful bowlers who can change the pace of the game anytime, based on their skill set. So, you have to be at your absolute best to face them,” said the star Indian batter.

Pakistan will face India on September 2 in group match of Asia Cup. Both the teams are likely to meet again on September 10, if they qualify for the super-four stage of the tournament, and on 17th if both qualify for the final.

The South Asian rivals will also meet each other in ICC World Cup 2023 match in Ahmedabad on October 14.

Virat also spoke about the importance he gives to ODI cricket.

“I love playing ODI cricket. I think ODI cricket is one format which tests your game completely. Your technique, your composure, playing the situation. And playing differently in different phases of the game.

“I think it tests you as a batsman completely, that’s why I feel that ODI cricket has always brought the best out of me, because I like to embrace that challenge, and play according to the situation to help my team win, it provides an opportunity to test myself regularly. All aspects of my batting, and that’s why I really enjoy playing ODI cricket,” he said.

Virat added that it is important to focus on how to be better every time instead of just being on focused on certain performances.

“I only try to understand how I can better my game. Every day, every practice session, every year, every season, this is what has helped me play this well,” he said. ''If your performance is your only goal, then you can be satisfied at one point and stop working hard.”

Virat said he strives for betterment every day and performance obviously become a by-product because of the mindset of “How do I make my team win from this position?''

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