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Kohli calls on India to be bold

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Virat Kohli (Getty Images)
Virat Kohli (Getty Images)

Cape Town - Indian captain Virat Kohli believes 'whichever team is more brave stands a better chance to win' when his side meet New Zealand in a World Cup semi-final on Tuesday.

India will go in to the match as favourites having secured top spot on the group standings with victory over Sri Lanka on Saturday, whereas the Black Caps lost their final three group matches in a row and only progressed due to having a higher net run rate than Pakistan.

Kohli, however, is well aware that recent form counts for little when it comes to a knockout fixture and believes the side that is more bold on the day will emerge triumphant.

"In the league stages when you need a victory to qualify the team is a bit more relaxed - you can go out and try a few things," Kohli told Sky Sports.

"In the knockouts it is a bit different - you need to be precise and at the same time be intense, get that balance. This is more similar to the toughest situations you get in Test cricket.

"Decision-making will be crucial but both teams are experienced enough. New Zealand were in the final last time and know how to play knockout games.

"Whichever team is more brave stands a better chance to win. It's as simple as who plays better on the day.

"It's up to both teams to bring their 'A' games and then whoever handles pressure better is the team that's going to come out on top."

Kohli went on to say that the atmosphere in the camp is very positive.

"The mood is great, everybody is very relaxed, very confident," Kohli added. "We're all looking forward to it. It's been a long tournament, it's been a lot of hard work, a lot of intense games.

"We're really, really happy that we have made it to the semis and now there's only opportunity that lies in front of us and everyone's very excited for it," concluded the Indian skipper.

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