IPL's a learning curve: Kohli

28th May 2008

The Bangalore Royal Challengers have been a big disappointment in the inaugural DLF Indian Premier League (IPL) and are going to finish second last in the points table. Youngster Virat Kohli, India captain of the Under-19 World Cup winning squad earlier this year and member of the Bangalore side, talks to our on-field reporter.

Kohli believed that the first year of the IPL has been a learning curve for him and he was trying to gain as much knowledge about the game from his more experienced teammates. He said, "As much as I can take from these great players, it will be helpful for me in the coming IPL seasons."

Even though the team was knocked out of semi-final contention long ago, the Royal Challengers have done well to salvage some pride with a couple of convincing wins. Virat says that his team realized that they lacked intensity on the field, but they have got some good rhythm behind them now after beating the Chennai Super Kings and Deccan Chargers.

"We (Bangalore Royal Challengers) are getting rhythm and right team combination which is good for us next year," he said.

Many critics term the Bangalore franchise as a Test-mode team in a T20 outfit. The 19-year-old feels that it is wrong for anybody to call the Royal Challengers a Test team because they have chased a total in excess of 150 runs on a couple of occasions. He further added that his team has the potential to beat any opponent on their day.

Nothing went right for the Bangalore team in the first half of the tournament. The India Under-19 skipper says that his team didn't click as a proper unit in the early stages and the Challengers were going through a bad phase. But now they are recovering well which is being reflected with their recent performances on the field.

About his own performances in the IPL, the right-hander averred, "If I am able to fulfill my team's need, then I am pretty much happy with the way I am doing."

The Delhi-born youngster idolises South African livewire Herschelle Gibbs since his childhood. He feels privileged to have played against the dashing cricketer and to shake his hand after the game. "It's a dream come true for me," an excited Virat said.

The youngster appreciates Rahul Dravid's role as captain and informed that, "He (Dravid) has been motivating us in the field. Despite being under pressure, he has always been positive.'

On his fortunes of playing with the senior Indian team, Virat said that he has to work extremely hard and perform really well. "I am trying my best, I have been giving my best and I hope it shows on the field."