‘Excites you to unlock a new version at this stage of your career’ – Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli’s Record‑breaking ODI Century vs West Indies

• Match: India vs West Indies, ODI series opener in Trivandrum
• Score: 100 runs off 74 balls – Kohli’s third‑fastest ODI hundred
• Key stats:
  • 9 sixes (a personal ODI best)
  • 53 runs off 26 balls against Alzarri Joseph
  • 30th ODI century, taking his career tally past 15,000 ODI runs

Kohli’s Remarks

• “I’ve never focused on milestones; I’m just grateful and blessed.”
• “At this stage of my career I need to unlock a new version of myself – play a gear higher, stay physically fit, and keep a free mind.”
• Emphasised the link between fitness and mental clarity: “Fit body → clear visualisation → better execution.”
• Stressed balance: “Play positively but not recklessly; there’s a fine line for a professional.”

Shubman Gill’s Take

“He’s batting superbly and enjoying the game more, playing with freedom. He still has the ability to clear the boundary at will.”

Outlook

• Kohli’s aggressive approach comes as India prepares for the 2027 World Cup.
• He urges younger players to focus solely on the game once on the field: “Put your head down, give everything, no excuses.”

Key points for a news story:

• Record‑breaking century (9 sixes, 74 balls)
• Milestone of 15,000 ODI runs
• Kohli’s focus on fitness, mindset, and playing a higher gear at 38
• Positive endorsement from Shubman Gill
• Forward‑looking comments about the upcoming World Cup and mentoring the next generation.