Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has revealed that he often visualizes the game, which helps him perform at his best. He added that at his age, proper recovery is crucial to maintain peak performance. Kohli, who turned 37 earlier this month, is in the latter stages of his illustrious career.

The significance of Kohli’s 52nd ODI century was evident during South Africa’s chase, which collapsed under sustained Indian pressure. Ahead of this series, Kohli arrived in Ranchi two days before the team and completed a few focused training sessions before the rest of the squad joined.

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Kohli on Preparation and Enjoying the Game

“I wanted to get a feel for the conditions in Ranchi. I visualise the game a lot. When I think about it and see myself being intense and sharp, I know I can relax and perform on the field,” Virat Kohli said at the post-match presentation.

“I am 37, so I also need to take care of my body,” the star Indian batter added. At this stage of his career, what matters most for Kohli is holding on to the pure joy of the game and reconnecting with the reasons he first picked up a bat.

“Today was really nice to get into the game like that. The pitch played well for the first 20–25 overs before slowing down. I just wanted to play the ball and enjoy cricket,” he said.

“It was about being in a space of enjoyment. When you get a start, your experience kicks in, and you can build an innings,” Kohli added.

Dominant Performance Guides India

Earlier, Kohli’s 135 off 120 balls, with 11 boundaries and seven sixes, combined with Rohit Sharma’s 57 off 51 to form a 136-run second-wicket partnership, laying the foundation for India’s big total on a true JSCA pitch.

With Kohli no longer part of T20Is and no ODIs scheduled for India after the New Zealand series in January, every outing in this format now carries extra significance.