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This is what you play cricket for, I am overwhelmed: Kohli

March 27, 2016 23:41 IST

IMAGE: Virat Kohli of India celebrates victory as James Faulkner of Australia looks on during their World T20 match in Mohali. Photograph: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images.

An "emotional" and "overwhelmed" Virat Kohli has termed his exceptional 82-run knock against Australia as his best in Twenty20 internationals.

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Australian attack fizzled out in front of Kohli onslaught as he single-handedly led India to the semi-finals of the World Twenty20. 

"This innings has to be in my top three, perhaps the top right now because I'm a bit emotional," Kohli said after being adjudged Man-of-the-match. Kohli said challenges and tough situations are imperative to improve apart from acknowledging support of the fans. 

"I would like to thank the crowd, it was unbelievable, the support helps you push through those tough times. This is what you play cricket for. You need challenges in every game, they improve you as a cricketer. I don't know what to say, I am overwhelmed," he said. 

IMAGE: Virat Kohli of India celebrates victory during the ICC WT20 match against Australia. Photograph: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images.

Kohli also pointed out that presence of cool-headed skipper MS Dhoni at the other end was very crucial for him. 

"Yuvi had a good partnership and then MS kept me calm …I could have got very excited. It's a team effort," he said. 

Asked about his and Dhoni's electrifying running between the wickets, Kohli said," We have always run well, we have a great understanding.

"That's why you train in the gym, that's why you have those sprints, you have those fitness regimes. All of those paid off today."

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