Indore, Jan 19 (.) Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has praised Virat Kohli’s batting temperament, highlighting the star batter’s ability to adapt his game according to the situation rather than being bound by an expected playing style.
Speaking on JioStar after the third and final ODI against New Zealand in Indore, Gavaskar said Kohli’s mindset sets him apart from many contemporary players. “The thing about him is that he’s not tied down to an image,” Gavaskar said. “A lot of batters and bowlers are constrained by how they’re perceived and feel they must live up to that image. Virat isn’t like that. He’s tied to the job at hand, and that job is to score runs.”
Gavaskar explained that Kohli’s flexibility allows him to begin cautiously when required and attack early when the situation demands. “He’s not governed by expectations of how he should play. He plays according to the situation. That temperament is the key,” he added, noting that Kohli’s refusal to give up even under pressure is a defining trait.
Kohli’s comments came after his valiant 124 off 108 balls in the series decider, an innings that stood out despite India falling short in a chase of 338. New Zealand won the match by 41 runs to seal a historic 2–1 ODI series victory, their first-ever series win on Indian soil after a wait of 37 years.
Gavaskar suggested Kohli’s dismissal late in the innings may have come down to fatigue rather than intent. “Even till the end, he was trying. Perhaps the gloves got a bit sweaty, the grip went slightly, and that’s why the bat face turned,” he said.
He also underlined Kohli’s approach as a lesson for young cricketers, urging them to focus on match situations rather than preconceived expectations.
The former opener also lauded all-rounder Harshit Rana’s lower-order batting, praising his clarity of role during a crucial phase of the chase. Rana struck a counter-attacking 52 off 43 balls, sharing a 99-run partnership with Kohli that briefly revived India’s hopes.
“He batted exactly like a lower-order batter should, without worry and without expectations,” Gavaskar said, adding that Rana’s composure alongside a senior player like Kohli was particularly impressive.
Despite the spirited stand, India were bowled out 41 runs short, bringing an end to the series with New Zealand scripting a landmark victory.
. VAN .