Kohli calls for intense CRICKET, without unnecessary TENSIONS vs Australia

From the initial provocations to the clashes on the field, the rivalry between India and Australia has been legendary for its intensity. However, there seems to be a change in the air. Is it possible that the fierce competition is giving way to greater respect? In the past, clashes between both teams were close to coming to blows. But something changed after the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town. Virat Kohli, India’s captain, asked fans to stop booing Steven Smith, showing new respect. This 2020-21 test series raises the question of whether this newfound respect will compromise the intensity and integrity of the matches. On the eve of the first Test in Adelaide, Kohli revealed that the good relations are partly due to both teams playing together in the IPL and knowing each other better. In addition, the maturity of the players also influences. Australia has recognized the need to improve its behavior, seeking a balance between competitiveness and good sportsmanship. Kohli commented that this year has led people to reflect on what is truly important.

“This year has made people realize that many things might not have been necessary in the past, where you hold grudges and have unnecessary tension between teams and individuals, which is absolutely useless. You will still be professional and make sure to be positive and aggressive in your body language and in the way you do things on the field”.

Virat Kohli

Kohli also highlighted that the quality of cricket should be the most important thing. Although the competition remains intense, the “unnecessary content” has been filtered out. There is more respect between the teams, and he hopes that cricket will continue to be competitive. The Indian captain hopes the quality of cricket will not be compromised. The exchange of words is part of the game, but he does not foresee it becoming personal. Players are smarter and make better decisions. Kohli is highly respected in Australia for his attitude on the field. When asked if the players feel vilified, Kohli responded that the players do what is necessary for their team and that the quality of cricket should not be compromised. Kohli believes that the competition will continue to be high voltage, but without disrespect. At the end of the five days, the effort of both teams can be appreciated and leave the problems off the field. In short, the rivalry between India and Australia remains intense, but with a new level of respect.