Series is set-up nicely, says Kohli

Virat Kolhi’s individual brilliance failed to carry India home in the first Test against England at Edgbaston but the skipper felt they can stage a comeback in the remaining four matches.

“The series is set up nicely now,” Kohli told BBC Radio’s Test Match Special after the match. “The fact we didn't play to our potential at all and were still close in the game says everything about us as a side. If we pull ourselves together and even play 80-85 percent of the cricket we can then it’s going to be a very exciting and competitive series.”

Kohli said he’s delighted at having finally scored a century in England but it doesn’t mean much if it can’t contribute towards a win. “Back in the day I used to think about playing in different conditions, different countries, but when you become captain it’s about taking your team across the line. When the focus is on the larger picture, these things don’t matter. You are able to bat longer than you would’ve done otherwise and the ability you have inside just unleashes because you’re not focused on your personal milestones. So thinking of the team always helps and that’s why I was able to bat longer than I would’ve otherwise.”

Kohli also felt this was one of the best Test matches he’s played. “Both afternoon sessions on day two and three were seesaw battles. We thought on day two lunchtime we know we’re in the game and then we came close and then England thought they were out of the game and then came back. That’s why this was such a good Test match to be part of and I’m sure everyone watching at home and in the stadium enjoyed it as well.”