World T20: Full credit to Virat Kohli for believing in his ability, says Ravi Shastri

Mumbai, March 30: Indian cricket team director Ravi Shastri on Wednesday heaped praise on star batsman Virat Kohli for his consistent performances in the ongoing World Twenty20.

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India face the West Indies in the second semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium here on Thursday.

After a disappointing loss to New Zealand in their campaign opener, 2007 edition champions India came back strongly to outclass Pakistan, Bangladesh and Australia to enter the semis in style. Kohli scored a match-winning, unbeaten 82 runs off 51 to steer India to victory against Australia. He has scored 184 runs in four matches so far. (West Indies are a 'dangerous side': Ravi Shastri)

"Virat's innings was outstanding. It is one of the best innings you will ever see in T20 cricket. I don't know how long T20 cricket will be played, but when you consider the occasion and the pressure and the kind of shots he played, (it) was quite unbelievable. All cricketing shots and spread across the ground," Shastri said.

"I had absolutely no doubt when I took on the job and seeing the form he was in and knowing fully well that he will be right on track. It was just a case of mind over matter. But you got to give him credit for really believing in him that to be right up there with the best and putting in the hard yards.

"Let me tell you no one trains harder than Virat. And if he is as successful as he has been over the last 18 months, credit must be given to him for that hard work and believing in his ability," the former India captain said.

IANS