Versatile Kohli issues Australia a warning!

India's batting mainstay Virat Kohli suggested Australia will make the grave mistake of adding 'fuel to fire' if they needle him in Sunday's win-or-bust World Twenty20 contest but asserted he is good enough to excel without provocations.

A self-admitted admirer, as well as practitioner, of Australia's passionate, aggressive brand of cricket, it is almost inevitable that the 27-year-old has featured in several on-field spats with them.

With a place in the semi-finals at stake, sparks may fly again in Sunday's mouth-watering contest between inaugural T20 champions India and reigning 50-over world champions Australia.

"I've always said that I sort of thrive on those situations," Kohli told reporters on Friday. "But you just can't go in with that sort of mindset only. You need to be versatile..."

"If I get into a debate with anyone, if I have to take a certain stance, that doesn't necessarily put me off my game. If anything, that motivates me more," said India's Test captain.

"It doesn't mean if I don't get into a debate with someone, I won't be motivated to win the game for my team.

"It's better to plan your innings without that situation and if that situation comes in, you have to take in as more fuel to the fire."