SYDNEY: Virat Kohli said India must learn from Australia's bowlers if they are to improve as a Test side after holding the Australians to a draw in the final Sydney Test on Saturday.
Kohli, who took over the Test captaincy after Mahendra Singh Dhoni's shock retirement following the third Melbourne Test, said he was proud that India made Australia earn their 2-0 win in the four-Test series.
"At the international level there is a lot for us to improve on as a Test side, especially seeing the way the Australians bowl. I think that's something we need to learn from big time," he said.
"If we can improve on that we're going to be a very strong Test team moving forward."
Kohli, who scored an Indian record series aggregate of 692 runs at 86.50 against Australia, said his team made the home side fight all the way.
"The result has not gone our way but we have played the kind of cricket that we wanted to and honestly Australia have had to earn both the victories they've had," he said.
"When we get more composure and improve on a few areas, you will see us cashing in on those important moments.
"What matters is they won the series. We did not. But the way we played in this series is something very exciting for us and something to look forward to in the future."
Kohli said India must learn from Australia's bowlers if they are to win Tests away from home.
India have won only one of their last 23 Tests overseas.
"Especially someone like Josh Hazlewood who has put the ball in the right spot in all three of his Test matches," Kohli said.
"That's something we need to work on big time if you want to take 20 wickets and win Test matches."
Kohli said it had been challenging yet enjoyable playing against a competitive Australian team in front of vocal crowds.
"I had a couple of incidents the last time but this time they (crowds) haven't been disrespectful," Kohli said.
"They have booed me but I know they have liked the way we have played our cricket.
"They have liked the way I go out there and annoy the opposition.
"To have the whole Australian crowd and 11 players who want to irritate me and get me out has been challenging but it has been enjoyable.
"It has brought out the best in me. This is certainly the best Test series that I have had so far.
"There were a lot of things that went on during the series but eventually we all shook hands.
"We respect the way they play and both teams know this was a strong fight and enjoyed it equally."
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