Virat Kohli Dismisses Steve Smith’s ‘Mind Games’ Before 2nd Test

‘Does it look like (I am under pressure)? I’m pretty relaxed. I’m happy. I’m smiling,’ said Kohli.

Virat Kohli dismissed Steve Smith’s comments on the Indian team feeling pressure ahead of the second Test. (Photo: AP)

Countering rival Australian captain Steve Smith's assertion that India were under pressure due to an unexpected debacle in the series-opener, home skipper Virat Kohli asserted that he and his team are relaxed.

Smith, speaking to media on the eve of the second Test, said they were just one win away from reclaiming the series and the hosts must be feeling the heat since they are trailing.

I think they will feel under a little bit of pressure. Obviously, going into this series, all I heard was 4-0 to them. So they’re one down and need to come back. We are one win away from the Border-Gavaskar trophy. Things can happen pretty quickly here. So we might be one or two sessions away from getting that back. I’m sure they’ll feel under a bit of pressure.

Steve Smith

Australian Cricket Captain Steven Smith and bowler Steve O’Keefe during a training session ahead the 2nd test match against India. (Photo: IANS)

When asked about Smith's views, Kohli laughed off the suggestions as "mind games."

Me? As a team? Does it look like (under pressure). I’m pretty relaxed. I’m happy. I’m smiling. It’s fine, those are his views. I think it’s time we focus on our skills more than what Australia is saying or preparing like. I know these minds games in these press conferences are something they’re very good at.

Virat Kohli

The second Test starts in Bangalore on Saturday.