India's match-winner against Pakistan during Sunday's Pool B World Cup game here, Virat Kohli said the victory is "one of the biggest" wins in his career as the defending champions beat their traditional rivals by 76 runs.
A special century by vice-captain Kohli (107), Shikhar Dhawan's 73 and Suresh Raina's 74 guided India to 300/7 which Pakistan failed to chase down, being bowled out for 224 in 47 overs at the Adelaide Oval. Kohli scored his 22nd One-Day International (ODI) century.
"Probably one of the biggest (win) in my career so far," said Kohli at the post-match presentation ceremony here Sunday.
"Amazing way to begin our World Cup with a win under our belt, but they did put up a strong fight."
Asked how he felt being hailed as the new Sachin Tendulkar of the Indian batting line up, Kohli was left awestruck for a moment only to mutter: "Expectations are going to be there when you do well for your country. I just look to stand up to them because I hate losing games and play passionately. I like the burden of expectations."
The 26-year-old added that his role in the team is to play as a sheet-anchor so that the other batsmen can bat around him freely knowing that one end is secure.
"My role in the team is to bat through, and the power-hitters can play around knowing that one end is secure. The way Shikhar (Dhawan) and Suresh (Raina) batted today is commendable. The support has been magnificent. We expect the same throughout the tournament."
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
