Watch: Virat Kohli explains reason behind his animated celebration of wickets

Virat Kohli made his international debut in 2008. He wasn't only a talented batter but a spectacular fielder, who would back up his bowlers by taking sharp catches and stopping runs. Another aspect of Kohli's game that grabbed the attention of cricket enthusiasts was his infectious energy on the field and the hunger to succeed.

17 years later, the 36-year-old continues to be a livewire on the field, giving valuable advice to the bowlers when necessary and trying to stop every run possible with his brilliant athleticism and sharp reflexes. Kohli's energy is palpable during his animated celebrations after his teammates pick up wickets. During an interview with ICC (International Cricket Council), Kohli explained the reason behind his unmissable celebrations.

"You know, for me, firstly, taking the field to play is anyways a joy in itself, and you play to win. That's basically why you go to play. So for me, if a wicket falls, that's taking another step towards that victory, which for me is the most important thing. And in team sport, you work really hard towards it with 10 other people. I try to enjoy and celebrate every moment for the team, which helps us go towards victory," Kohli said.

Virat Kohli's record versus Australia in ODIs

Kohli hadn't been in great form heading into the Champions Trophy 2025. He failed to convert his start in the first game of the tournament against Bangladesh. However, he bounced back to form in emphatic style, slamming an unbeaten century against Pakistan. In the last match in the group stage against New Zealand, Kohli was dismissed cheaply after Glenn Phillips took a jaw-dropping catch at backward point.

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India are set to face Australia in the semifinals of the Champions Trophy on Tuesday, March 4, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The former India skipper has an excellent record against the Aussies in ODI cricket. He has amassed 2,367 runs from 49 matches at a staggering average of 53.79 and a commendable strike rate of 94. Kohli has notched up eight centuries and 14 fifties against Australia. He will have a key role to play with the bat against the Men in Yellow.