I like to lead from front, says skipper Kohli

The Indian team for the upcoming ODI series in Zimbabwe is missing some key players, including inspirational captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who have been rested, but skipper for the tour Virat Kohli on Friday described the squad as a strong one.

“I don’t think experience matters, especially in limited overs game. You need eleven players who are hungry for success, who are hardworking and whose vision is victory. All 15 players are strong and it is a strong unit, which is good,” said Kohli at a promotional event.

India are to play against Zimbabwe in a five-match series from July 24 to August 3. The squad is without Dhoni, R Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav and Ishant Sharma.

Kohli said if the team performs in a manner similar to its display over the last month-and-a-half, then it will be good for Indian cricket. “I can’t guarantee. If we continue this way, it will be a good time for Indian cricket. It would make a lot of people happy,” he said.

The 24-year-old, who has played 108 ODIs and also featured in the 2011 World Cup winning squad led by Dhoni, said he liked to lead from the front and set an example to others.

“I always like to lead from the front and set an example for whoever is playing with me or around me. I like taking responsibilities. That is a natural thing for me,” he said.
“The best quality is to not be afraid of anything. Even if you have seniors or players with lot more experience in your team, you need to have confidence in your ability and think you can lead them. It is important you set an example with your performance quickly and then you gain respect.

“If the respect is mutual between players and captain then the side is successful. It comes from performance and when you win matches for the team, that inspiration spreads in the team,” he said.  Kohli also welcomed all-rounder Parvez Rasool, the first player from Jammu and Kashmir in the national squad, as a deserving pick.

“It is a good sign that players are not just coming from major cities. You can see everybody is working hard and the thinking is not narrow-minded in India. It is a good sign that he (Rasool) has been selected. If he gets the opportunity to play a match then I am sure he will try to give a good performance.”