BIRMINGHAM: They say there is a difference between arrogance and confidence. But it was difficult to spot which of the two traits Virat Kohli exhibited on Saturday on the eve of India’s Champions Trophy match against old rivals Pakistan.

The Indian captain didn’t brush aside Pakistan altogether but he did come close.

He described them as an opponent that could surprise any team. But that was it.

While the rest of the cricket world is buzzing with excitement ahead of Sunday’s marquee clash, Kohli described the pre-match scenario as “boring”.

But what was not boring were the questions hurled at him about his alleged tussle with Anil Kumble, India’s coach.

The pre-match presser in fact was more about the supposed turmoil in the Indian dressing room than Sunday’s big game.

Kumble answered the questions by questioning media’s role in the entire issue.

“There have been a lot of speculations and things being written by people without actually being part of the change room, which is strange. There are no problems whatsoever. I don’t know why people are creating issues. The team is totally focused on Champions Trophy. I honestly don’t know about it and don’t even want to know. In a major tournament, people like to find rumours.”

Kohli deflected the question of BCCI inviting fresh applications for the post of head coach despite Kumble doing an excellent job.

“I don’t understand why there is speculation for a process. I don’t even know, I don’t want to know. In a tournament which is so much in focus, lot of people like to find rumours before the tournament. They are trying to do their job and get their livelihood, we will focus on our livelihood,” he said.

Kohli said that disagreements are just part of life.

“Agreements and disagreements happen. I would not comment on things that I am not fully aware of. I would not speculate. I think there is lack of patience right now and nobody admits mistakes. If you (media) write something and it goes wrong, have the heart to admit that you have gone wrong rather than saying that problem has been solved,” he said.

“It’s normal to have disagreements, even at home, not everybody agrees on everything. It’s human nature. When you don’t know about something completely, don’t spread rumours and speculate, just focus on cricket,” he said.

About Sunday’s game, Kohli said that his team was fully prepared.

“We are hundred per cent motivated for the Pakistan game.

“As a team, Pakistan can surprise you. All you can do is focus on your skills. You should be good enough to handle a cricket ball, no matter whom you play. Have to come out on top.

“Pakistan can beat anyone on their day. We just have to play good cricket.”

Kohli stressed that teams shouldn’t become complacent even after posting big totals.

“In shorter formats, no total is safe. Chasing 300 has become easy. You still have to bowl well and defend a total. Application is key. Nothing safe in this age,” he said.