'Had to keep my ego aside': Virat Kohli opens up to PM Modi about his struggles in T20 World Cup

In a free-wheeling interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Virat Kohli opened up about his 'ego' hindering his performance during the T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, even though India emerged victorious in the end. Reflecting on the tournament, star performer of World Cup final Kohli elaborated on his struggles and revelations.

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¡°First of all, thank you so much for inviting us,¡± Kohli began, recognising the importance of the World Cup final despite his personal challenges. He shared a significant conversation with Rahul Dravid, who reassured him of his potential to shine when needed most.

Kohli brought up a memorable moment during the ultimate clash against South Africa. After Kohli struck three boundaries in the first over by Marco Jansen, he turned to Rohit Sharma and said, ¡°What a game this is! One day you feel like not being able to score a single run and then there¡¯s another when everything starts working out.¡±

Surrender is the ultimate instruction of the Bhagavad-gita. ??

Virat Kohli talking about the D-Day! Best in the world! pic.twitter.com/eMhRxqQiLh

¡ª BALA (@erbmjha) July 5, 2024

The tournament proved to be challenging for Kohli, but the former Indian skipper managed to contribute significantly at a time when it was required of him.

Reflecting on the victory, Kohli said, ¡°I felt that I have been pushed into that zone and I can¡¯t explain the reason behind it... I am happy to have contributed at such a big occasion.¡± When asked by PM Modi about his family's reaction, Kohli revealed that the time zone difference restricted their interaction, adding, ¡°My mother ends up getting worried.¡±

Kohli ended his interaction by acknowledging the importance of setting aside his ego for team's performance. ¡°When you respect the game, it respects you. So that¡¯s what I experienced,¡± he remarked.

During this hour-long meeting, Prime Minister Modi posed a series of insightful questions to the T20 World Cup winning Indian team players. Among these was his query to Rohit Sharma about the taste of mud. After the final victory, Rohit had sunk to the ground, pulled off blades of grass and a bit of mud from the famous turf at Barbados, and proceeded to put it in his mouth.

Modi also engaged with Jasprit Bumrah, asking what was going through his mind during his final spell, particularly the crucial 16th and 18th over of the innings. Bumrah gave away just six runs and picked up a wicket during these overs, which played a crucial role in India's stunning comeback when South Africa needed 30 runs off as many deliveries with Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller in control.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma receives hero's welcome from childhood friends after T20 WC victory celebrations in Mumbai

Suryakumar Yadav, who took the game-winning catch in the final over, was asked about his thoughts during those crucial moments. Suryakumar¡¯s magical juggling catch on the fence to dismiss David Miller was pivotal in India¡¯s long-awaited ICC event triumph.

Additionally, Axar Patel was asked about his feelings when he was promoted with the team in trouble in the final. Each player shared their moments from the successful campaign, providing a glimpse into their experiences and emotions during the World Cup.

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Seated between captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid, with the rest of the players completing the circle, the meeting with PM Modi was a significant moment of reflection and celebration for the victorious Indian cricket team.

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