India skipper Virat Kohli says his crew will pounce at any alternative to win a Test match and the win on the Supersport Park in opposition to South Africa is a sworn statement to the “all-round side” it has turn into within the longest format.
India wrapped up a memorable 2021 in fashion by bringing down South Africa’s citadel, the Supersport Park, as they handed the Proteas a 113-run loss within the opening Test.
“Test series in South Africa in any place is not easy and Centurion is obviously the most difficult of them all,” Kohli instructed bcci.television.
While India’s batter’s did properly to substantial leads in each innings, the tempo unit ran via the South African batting line up, selecting 18 wickets.
“We ended up getting a result in four days is a testimony to the fact that we have become the side we have become today and strength of the squad was on full display,” Kohli stated.
“We were just looking for opportunities to win the game and that’s how we play cricket now and given an opportunity at any stage we will pounce on it,” he added.
Having by no means gained a sequence in South Africa, Kohli feels the win is a “golden opportunity” for the Indian crew to place strain on the house aspect within the second Test and eke out a beneficial consequence.
“It’s an exquisite place to be in, to be 1-0 up away from dwelling, put the opposition beneath strain once more within the second Test is a golden alternative for us and one thing that each participant is wanting ahead to.
“This sets us up beautifully for Wanderers, we can go out there and be more positive and optimistic.”
Reflecting on the 12 months passed by the place India achieved historic success in Australia and got here near successful a Test sequence in England, Kohli stated the aspect is getting assured with every passing recreation.
“The new 12 months is an excellent marker to analyse the way you performed your cricket and I feel we’ve performed some excellent cricket during the last 2-3 years, specifically abroad.
“We are a side which is getting better and more confident with how much cricket we play.” Newly-appointed vice captain KL Rahul, who was additionally adjudged the participant of the match for his fabulous 123-run knock within the first innings, was additionally delighted by the win.
“Coming to a rustic like South Africa and beating them in their very own fortress feels very particular.
“This is the second such victory for us, one was in Gabba and now one in Centurion. Hopefully we can build on this and win the series,” Rahul stated.
