Will play only if I am 100 percent fit, says Virat
DHARAMSALA: Virat Kohli’s dodgy shoulder has dominated the buildup to the deciding Test against Australia in Dharamsala. The India skipper stated that he will play the game only if he is 100 per cent fit.
Speaking at the press conference, Kohli said, “I am no different from anyone. No special treatment for me and the same rule applies for anyone. Me being 100 per cent fit is the only condition that I will play tomorrow.”
In the Friday nets session, Kohli was seen clutching his right shoulder when the India team started the warm-up session. He managed to play 20 minutes of foot volley with the team. As the session progressed, Kohli walked to the practice area and started his batting nets session. After five minutes of light throwdowns, the India skipper batted for 20 minutes and looked in no visible discomfort.
However, Kohli said the injury to his shoulder was not caused due to lack of fitness. “An impact injury is an impact injury. One needs to give a bit more time before I can make the call with the physio. I have to look at the full match scenario when I take the decision,” said Kohli.
The India skipper added, “The injury has an element of being aggravated in the field. While batting, there is no discomfort. I have taken medication after the last game and that is why I have to take a bit of time before I take the decision to play.”
Kohli had hurt his right shoulder in the Ranchi Test when he looked to stop a boundary at wide long on. He dived but he landed heavily on his right shoulder which forced him to be off the field for a long time.
Kohli has struggled for runs in the series. However, he said his lack of form has not been a deterrent to India’s fortunes. “I have not done anything so far. Yet, the Indian team has won.” In this series, Kohli has managed scores of 0,13,12,15 and 6.
In the series, Kohli has been subjected to plenty of criticism, most notably from the Australian media. Kohli stated that he is not bothered. “The criticism doesn’t matter. I have always said what I wanted and I don’t have regrets. For me what my teammates think of me is important. However, I am surprised by the way this has affected people.”