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Cricket News: “This team is not going to back down” – Virat Kohli | India skipper Virat Kohli speaks about the fiery 2nd Test at Lord’s

India captain Virat Kohli has reiterated that this India team will not back down and take a backward step when things heat up on the cricket field.

Speaking to the media ahead of the all-important third Test, Kohli suggested that England “provoked” India throughout the Test, leading to a very fired up team particularly on the fifth day at Lord’s.

India, courtesy of a memorable Shami-Bumrah stand and superb bowling performance, took a 1-0 series lead with victory at the Home of Cricket. The India captain, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj were particularly fired up on the fifth day, with a number of exchanges between India, Ollie Robinson and James Anderson in particular throughout the match.

Also read: Joe Root let emotion get the better of him – James Anderson

Virat Kohli says that this India team will not take a backwards step to anyone

It is widely believed that a team is a reflection of their captain, and it shows with Virat Kohli’s leadership. The Indian skipper is looking forward to the third Test simply because of how his team reacts to pressure situations.

“It just showed this team is not going to back down and take a backward step when provoked,” said Kohli ahead of the third Test at Headingley.

“What is said on the field and what’s done in the moment, gives you extra motivation. As I said after the game, to get together as a team even more strongly.

“We play together, we play to win, and we don’t let anyone or any opposition just take us lightly.”

When asked about what England had done to provoke India, Kohli said that he cannot provide the details of the words that were spoken. He said it is the job of the stump mics and cameras to pick that up.

India’s fightback at Lord’s was reminiscent of their Australia tour where Tim Paine had a run in with Ravichandran Ashwin at Sydney. India then went on to achieve a memorable victory at the Gabba to take the series 2-1.

Although Kohli wasn’t available due to the birth of his first child, certain elements of his leadership rubbed off on the players as they were determined to achieve a great victory.

Also read: When Lord’s was home to ‘Kohlism”