Virat Kohli has taken batting to the next level at this World Cup. Having made a stunning comeback since the Asia Cup after his lean form, the former captain has 220 runs in four matches with a strike-rate of 144.73.

On Wednesday in Adelaide, Kohli top-scored once again with a 44-ball 64 not out as India won a hard-fought match against Bangladesh to top the Group 2 table and boost their semi-final hopes.

Kohli said he was “grinning from ear to ear” once he learnt that the World Cup was in Australia.

“As soon as I knew the World Cup was in Australia, I was grinning from ear to ear. I knew good cricketing shots would be the key. I knew the experience and game awareness of having played in Australia will come in handy for the team,” Kohli said.

“Pretty close game, not as close as we would’ve liked it to be. It was another good day with the bat I guess. When I went in, there was pressure, was watching the ball well.

“I’m just in a happy space, I don’t want to compare anything. What’s in the past is in the past.”

Kohli’s first Test century was at this very ground in 2012. Two years later, he hit hundreds in each innings at the same venue and nearly led India to a famous victory.

“I absolutely love playing in this ground. Right from the nets at the back, as soon as I enter, it makes me feel at home. That knock at MCG (against Pakistan) was meant to be, but when I come here, it’s like I’m meant to come to Adelaide and enjoy my batting,” he said.

Rohit Sharma also heaped praise on Kohli. “In my opinion, he was always there, it was a matter of a few innings here and there, he got it in the Asia Cup. We never had any doubts and the way he has been batting in this World Cup has been tremendous and he is really doing it for us,” Rohit said.

KL Rahul’s return to form was another good sign. “The team has given me a role and if I am able to do what team wants from me, I can sleep peacefully,” Rahul said. “Today it was an opportunity for me to stand up and be counted upon.”