- 'We can focus on what we did in Australia and take positives out of it but can't take anything for granted, it is a virtual quarter-final.'
- 'If we play to our potential, we can beat them again.'
India's batting mainstay Virat Kohi claimed that the hosts would be looking to draw inspiration from their series triumph in Australia when the two teams clash in a do-or-die match in Mohali on Sunday, to qualify for the semi-finals of the World T20.
Kohli said Australia will be tough as usual but they would take positives out of their 3-0 series whitewash Down Under in January.
India and Australia, both of whom have two wins from three matches, will be fighting for a place in the semis in Sunday's high-profile clash.
"You always want to win convincingly but it is not possible all times. Sometimes you have to adapt well to tough situations like we did in the last two games. If you look at how we have played this season, we have been consistent. We can focus on what we did in Australia and take positives out of it but can't take anything for granted, it is a virtual quarter-final. Why we beat them is important to remember rather than thinking only about the result. If we play to our potential, we can beat them again," Kohli said in Mohali on Saturday.
The right-hander pointed out that it is difficult to be consistent in the shortest format and the two tight wins against Pakistan and Bangladesh were humbling experience for the team, which began its World T20 campaign as the overwhelming title favourites.
"It was very good to get that win (over Bangladesh). It is very difficult to be consistent in this formant and you need to come to terms with that. Sometimes you need character to get you over the line and that is why our spinners and Hardik (Pandya) were brilliant for us.
"This format requires you to be at the top of your focus while batting and fielding. So we need to stay in the moment and not get carried away," he added.
Kohli, who is in the form of his life, has mellowed down a lot recently, although aggression still remains very much a part of his personality. Asked to give a sneak peek into his mental space, the team's biggest match winner had plenty to say.
Asked if resorts to prayers and meditation to keep calm in pressure situations out in the middle?
"Do I look like a pooja path (prayers and meditation) guy?" he quipped before giving an elaborate answer and taking a dig at his critics.
"When I started, a lot about me was wrong. I was the tattoo guy, the one who wore stylish clothes. It is very easy to focus on the negative stuff but I choose not do that. The basic thinking is I want to improve as a cricketer every day. I make sure I do all the hard work and hope it pays off one day. I back myself to go out there and win the game.
"As a cricketer, you don't have a long career. For me it is an opportunity. Once you get addicted to it (performing), you want more and more of it. You work so hard and you want that satisfaction," he explained.
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