London, May 25: Acknowledging the burden on his predecessor MS Dhoni lower down the order, India skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday (May 25) said the side needed to strengthen the lower middle order contribution as India begin their ICC Champions Trophy title defence against arch-rivals Pakistan at Edgbaston on June 4.
; India arrive in England to defend title" title="CT 17: Full Schedule; India favourites: Prasanna; India arrive in England to defend title" />CT 17: Full Schedule; India favourites: Prasanna; India arrive in England to defend title
"It has gained a lot of experience in the last three or four years. I love the tournament because it represents a challenge from the (word) go," he added.
After a couple of warm-up matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh, India will take on Pakistan at Edgbaston in one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the group stage.
Following that, India will tackle Sri Lanka and South Africa at the Kia Oval.
Kohli's 50-over form in the past 12 months is nothing short of exemplary, with an average of over 90 -- while he already has the fourth most one-day international centuries in history.
But he struggled to find his best form in England three years ago, averaging less than 20 across five Test matches.
"If you talk about the longer format of the game, then I did not do well here three years ago," he said.
"I was not able to contribute to the team and I want to succeed, although not to prove a point. It motivates me further to come back and do better."
"For me it is a game of cricket. From then to now, I have shown I am strong mentally. England brings a lot for challenges for a batsmen and I want to overcome them personally for my satisfaction at the end of my career.
"From that point of view, it is exciting for me," he added.
IANS