It's all about winning, ratings don't matter: Virat Kohli

Ahead of the India-New Zealand series, Indian skipper Virat Kohli mentioned how the team will be going forward considering they are about to play with the new ICC rules that came into effect for all series starting post-September 28. This will be the first series for India in which the new ICC rules will come into play, and the Indian captain said that the team has had a discussion about it.

“There are few rule changes which are quite interesting, guys will need awareness but then we will get used to it. The rule changes certainly make things more exciting and more professional. It helps you focus on what needs to be done during the game.”

Ratings don’t matter

India had to pave way for South Africa in the ICC ODI rankings after the latter enjoyed success in Bangladesh in the 2^nd ODI. Though they share identical 120 points, the Proteas have the edge in terms of decimal points. When India re-claimed the top spot during the Australia series Kohli was happy about the fact that their good cricket was being rewarded. Today, he refused to be drawn into a debate regarding rankings, saying it’s not something that is the players’ first priority and the focus should be on winning.

“We don’t think of rankings, you can’t be frustrated about such stuff. We want to continue playing good cricket. These things don’t really matter, it’s all about winning, ratings don’t really matter, these are the things which might be rewarding when you look back. We have to focus on the processes and the results.” Kohli said, as reported by Cricket Next.

Not so positive about India’s hectic schedule

While vice-captain Rohit Sharma yesterday said that facing New Zealand immediately after a gruelling series against Australia was an advantage because the players are still in the groove, Kohli did not sound very positive about India’s hectic schedule adding that it is something which needs to be looked at.

“This is New Zealand’s first ODI assignment after the Champions Trophy. Resting and recovery is also important for players, sometimes it can be the difference between doing well in a tournament and not doing well. Our schedule has become quite hectic and it is something that needs to be looked at.” Kohli said, while signing off.