‘I feel really free in my mind’
Speaking after receiving the Player of the Series award, Kohli said the freedom he felt at the crease was the most satisfying part of the series.
“Playing the way I have in the series is the most satisfying thing for me,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve played at this level for two or three years. I feel really free in my mind. Everything in my game is coming together nicely.”
He admitted the pressure had weighed on him before the series, especially knowing one mistake could spark fresh criticism. But he said understanding and controlling his own thought patterns helped him stay steady.
“You go through many phases of doubt. You feel nervous, especially in batting, where one mistake can cost you,” he said. “It’s a whole journey — getting better, becoming a better person. Realising negative thinking patterns and working on them helps the temperament. I’m glad I’m still contributing to the team.”
‘When I play freely, I can hit sixes’
Kohli’s late burst of sixes in the final match drew attention, and he said the confidence to clear the ropes returns naturally when he lets himself play without fear.
“When I play freely, I know I can hit sixes. I just wanted to push my boundaries,” he said. “The first innings of the series was the best for me. I hadn’t played since Australia, but the energy on the day helped me take risks. It opened me up in a way I hadn’t felt in a while.”
The 37-year-old said must-win games bring out his competitive edge and expressed satisfaction at continuing to deliver alongside Rohit Sharma.
“I want to make a play. Happy Rohit and I can help the team even now,” he said.
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