Ahead of the home Tests against South Africa, Hanuma Vihari was all in awe for Virat Kohli, saying his captain is an inspiration in the dressing room, and youngsters look at him as an idol to follow.

After his stellar show in West Indies, Vihari is now looking for another impressive showing against the Proteas side in the three-match home Test series.

Vihari was unquestionably India's biggest positive of the West Indies Test series having emerged as the top run-getter with 289 runs including a century and two half-centuries and he credited the dressing room atmosphere for his recent success on the Caribbean soil.

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Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, Vihari said: “He (Kohli) sets an example - on the field and off the field, with the work ethic he has. He is an inspiration in the dressing room, especially for youngsters. We look at him like an idol and someone who we can follow.”

On his focus to hit in the V, the right-hander said: “Playing in the V was always my strength. If you ask anyone who has seen me in the early years of my career, they would say it is. Once I get my eye in, I dominate the spinners. Even the fast bowlers. I widen my range of shots, but initially, I try to hit in the V and play as straight as possible.”

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He will be the key for India against South Africa having the experience of 60 First-class matches, although, he doesn’t want to take things for granted as he is eyeing to give his best shot at home.

Vihari signed off by saying, “Every team, especially now with the Test Championship, will come hard for a win. Especially when they’re playing away. They want an away win. It’ll boost their chances for the championship. I don’t want to take it easy and be complacent.”

(With ESPNCricinfo Inputs)