Kohli: 'We're certainly not taking anything for granted'

The Indian skipper dismissed the thought that Bangladesh was seeking revenge for the 2015 World Cup quarterfinal.

Published : Jun 14, 2017 22:46 IST

Kohli also hailed Yuvraj Singh's contribution to Indian cricket on the eve of his 300th ODI appearance.
Kohli also hailed Yuvraj Singh's contribution to Indian cricket on the eve of his 300th ODI appearance.
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Kohli also hailed Yuvraj Singh's contribution to Indian cricket on the eve of his 300th ODI appearance.

Virat Kohli termed Bangladesh a 'dangerous' team, stating that India would not be complacent in its Champions Trophy semifinal clash at Edgbaston on Thursday.

"We've been in these kinds of games quite a few times before, but there are no guarantees in this sport," he said. "A lot of teams have surprised the opposition, and we're certainly not taking anything for granted."

"It's no surprise to anyone that Bangladesh are doing well; they've really improved their cricket. They are a very dangerous side on their day," Kohli said.

 

"Even the other day (against NZ), I thought they were outstanding the way they applied themselves and chased the total down and they showed a lot of composure and patience, and that is always a sign of a side that is mature now, that knows how to win matches from difficult situations."

Kohli hailed Yuvraj Singh's contribution to Indian cricket on the eve of his 300th ODI appearance . "He's been a total match-winner for India, won us so many big tournaments and big series," he said.

"It’s a huge milestone. Obviously you have to be super skilled and super talented to be able to play those many games for the country. Personally in his life as well, he's fought bigger battles. It's proof of the character he possesses and the temperament he possesses. I hope he plays many more games for India."

Kohli dismissed the thought that Bangladesh was seeking revenge for the 2015 World Cup quarterfinal. That day in Melbourne, Rohit Sharma had been caught on the boundary on 91 but Rubel Hossain's full toss was deemed to be a no-ball. Rohit went on to make 137 as India won by 109 runs. In the aftermath of the match, Bangladesh erupted in fury, convinced that a conspiracy had been afoot.

READ:History beckons as Bangladesh seeks another scalp

"It's been 24 months. I seriously don't think that anyone is thinking about that game," Kohli said. "We've had so many matches against each other since then, and we are certainly not going out to prove a point to anyone."

Mashrafe Mortaza, the Bangladesh captain, agreed. "Obviously, the players have forgotten about it. It's been 24 months, exactly what Virat said, and tomorrow is going to be a new match."

India was under greater pressure than Bangladesh, Mortaza felt. “India has more pressure than us because the huge population is there, and people love cricket a lot. Even Bangladesh, also. Both teams have a lot of expectations."

"I just told the players, 'If you take it as a semifinal, the pressure will be very hard, but if you think it's just another match, it will become a lot easier."

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