In IPL 2023 on Thursday, Royal Challengers Bangalore won against Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets. Bangalore achieved the target of 187 runs in 19.2 overs. Kohli played an inning of 100 runs in 63 balls with the help of 12 fours and four sixes. This was his sixth century in IPL. In this way, he equaled Chris Gayle's record of most centuries in IPL. Also, he became the first Indian to score six centuries in this league. Kohli was given the Player of the Match award for this inning. In the award ceremony, Kohli said that he does not care what anyone says outside.
Kohli said- I never look at the numbers behind. I've put myself through so much stress already. I was telling fellow players that the way I am seen as an IPL player, people say ok let's play a few good innings. This is my sixth IPL century. Sometimes I don't give myself enough credit because I put myself under too much stress already. I don't care what anyone outside says. This is his opinion.
Kohli said- When you are in that situation yourself, you know how cricket matches are won. I have done this for a long time, it is not that when I play I do not win matches for my team. I pride myself on playing according to the situation. Kohli is often criticized for going slow in the middle overs. He said that he wants to stay true to his technique and avoid playing fancy shots.
Kohli said- I have never been a person who plays so many fancy shots. We have to play for 12 months of the year. For me, it is not about playing fancy shots and throwing my wicket away. Test cricket is to be played after IPL. I have to be true to my technique and find ways to win games for my team. Regarding his innings against Hyderabad, Kohli said – considering the importance of the match, it was a very special century. At first, it seemed that SRH have made a very good score. The ball was also gripping. Faf Duplessis is batting at a different level.
Asked how he and Duplessis are doing so well as an opening pair. Kohli jokingly said- I think it is because of the tattoo. It's like me and AB de Villiers batting together. There is a good understanding of where we are and how to take the game forward. It has been fantastic for RCB to perform well early on and make an impact with their batting.
Regarding the support RCB got from the fans, Kohli said – We are grateful to the fans for their support. I told Faf that it is like a home match. The fans were cheering for RCB and it was a great feeling even getting my name called. I don't think you can't make it. I have not forced anyone to support me. It is a wonderful position to be in that you can provide happiness to so many people.
RCB's win has made the playoff equation more exciting. Gujarat has already qualified with 18 points. Had RCB lost against Hyderabad, the Chennai and Lucknow teams would have reached the playoffs. Now both Chennai and Lucknow have to win their last matches. Bangalore is fourth with 14 points and Mumbai is fifth with 14 points.
(pc amarujala)