Hate Losing, my Role is to Hold the Innings Together: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli deservingly won the Man of the Match award as India routed Pakistan by 76 runs in their opening game of the 2015 World Cup. Kohli smashed 107 off 126 balls as India scored 300 for 7 after opting to bat first. Kohli said the MoM award was one of the "biggest" he had in his career. (Highlights)

Kohli loves to take responsibility and known for his ability to chase big totals, the 26-year-old played the role of an anchor after he batted at his No. 3 position. "I hate losing and love winning for India. That's the way I like playing the game," Kohli said in a post-match chat in Adelaide on Sunday. (Love you, Adelaide, says Virat Kohli)

India rode two solid partnerships against Pakistan and Kohli was a common factor. For the second wicket, Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan produced 129 runs while Suresh Raina and the Indian vice-captain scored a valuable 110 before Pakistan struck in the last 10 overs with quick wickets. (Adelaide Oval turns into 'Sea of Blue')

"My role in this World Cup is to bat through the innings. The plan is that the power hitters will bat around me and Suresh Raina did that well. It was a good batting show," said Kohli. (Well done, Team India! Tweets PM Narendra Modi)

How did Kohli prepare for Sunday's big game? "Well, expectations will be high. There are just too many people around you expecting you to win. The challenge is to stay in your zone and stay focused," Kohli said.

Kohli became the first Indian to score a century against Pakistan in a World Cup match. India will need more such sterling performances from Indian cricket's pin-up boy.