Virat Kohli makes a big statement after 77-run knock, says 'I know my name is now attached to just promoting the game in different parts of the world...'

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) opener Virat Kohli was on song in front of the home crowd at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium after the early reprieve. Kohli with his 100th fifty-plus T20 score kept RCB in the hunt before finisher Dinesh Karthik and impact player Mahipal Lomror helped the home side beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by four wickets. The 35-year-old was adjudged ‘Player of the match’ for his 77-run knock. In the post-match presentation, Kohli took a dig at reports that his place in T20 World Cup 2024 is in question. 
 

“I know my name is now attached to just promoting the game in different parts of the world when it comes to T20 cricket. I've still got it I guess,” he told the broadcasters. 
 

Kohli opened up on his time away from the game for a couple of months for the birth of his second child, 'Akaay'. He talked about the changes he went through after joining the RCB camp.

“Just to feel normal for two months - for me, my family - it was a surreal experience. Couldn't have been more grateful to God for the opportunity to spend time with the family. It's an amazing experience to just be another person on the road and not be recognised. That's the promise I can give here - I'll keep turning up and keep trying me best,” he said. 

Kohli was dropped by Jonny Bairstow on the second ball of the run chase. He made the second chance count and the crowd got behind him. The former RCB skipper thanked the Chinnaswamy crowd for their constant love and support.
 

“It's been going on for years (love story with fans at Chinnaswamy). People talk about a lot of other things when you play sport - achievement, stats, numbers. But when you look back it's the memories you create. The love, appreciation and backing I've received has been amazing,“ he said. 

 

ALSO READ: Glenn Maxwell tells commentators 'I'd rather not bowl in Chinnaswamy', then takes two big wickets against Punjab Kings
 

The veteran RCB batter also explained how he approached the run chase and why he did not play the cover drive and instead went dancing down the track.
 

“I try to give the team a blazing start, but if wickets fall you have to assess. Wasn't the usual flat pitch. Disappointed I couldn't finish the game. Was in the slot but sliced it to deep point. They know I play the cover drive well, so they're not going to allow me to hit gaps. You have to come up with a game plan here and there,” he added.
 

MORE ON SPORTS TAK: 

'You used to bat at no.3 for Gujarat': Mohammed Shami lashes out at ‘almost tailender’ Hardik Pandya for coming to bat at no.7

IPL 2024 full schedule announced; final to be played on May 26 in Chennai; check all details here