New Zealand vs India, first Test: Kohli slams 'outside chatter'
What's the story
Indian skipper Virat Kohli minced no words as the visitors were handed a massive 10-wicket defeat by New Zealand in the first Test at Wellington. Kohli reiterated that the team shouldn't be dejected after a solitary loss and move on from it. He also feels that the acceptance of the defeat defines the character of a side. Here is what Kohli said.
Quote
We need to keep our heads high: Kohli
"Some people might want it to be the end of the world but it's not. For us, it's a game of cricket we lost and we move on and keep our heads high. You accept it and that defines our character," Kohli said.
Match details
How did the match pan out?
India faced the wrath of Kiwi bowlers as they were put into bat by skipper Kane Williamson. Kyle Jamieson and Tim Southee scalped eight wickets apiece to bundle out India for 165. In reply, the Kiwis were 225/7, however, they ended with 348. India's batsmen failed to deliver in the second innings as well. New Zealand won by 10 wickets, chasing mere 9 runs.
Outside chatter
The Kohli-led side doesn't pay attention to the outside world
According to Kohli, Team India doesn't pay attention to the outside chatter during the rough days. "That's why we have been able to play this kind of cricket. If we would have paid attention to outside chatter, we would again be at number 7 or 8 in the rankings," he said. He added, "We don't bother about what people are saying on the outside."
Belief
We have always had the belief to stage comeback: Kohli
The Indian captain asserted that team carries the propensity to make a comeback in the upcoming Test. "We will work hard, and after four days play just like we have played all these years," he said. He added, "Just because we have lost one match in between all wins, doesn't mean that the belief is gone. The dressing room thinks differently."
Second Test
India would be eyeing the final Test to level series
The Wellington Test must have served as an opener for Kohli & Co. as it ended their 7-Test winning streak. However, the Indian team would be looking to stake a claim in the upcoming Christchurch Test. Toss will once again play a crucial role in the match as the teams will yet again elect to bowl and gain the edge early on.