Kohli: India vs Australia, High-Voltage Cricket Without Unnecessary Tensions

From the moments of tension on the field to the evolution of the game, the rivalry between India and Australia has undergone significant changes. An example of this was when Shikhar Dhawan mocked an injured Shane Watson in 2013, and David Warner was used as the official provocateur during the 2014-15 tour. There was a time when this rivalry was close to coming to physical blows. However, after the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town, something changed. The 2018-19 series was characterized by funnier banter, unlike the hostility that used to accompany matches between India and Australia. Virat Kohli, India’s captain, even asked fans to stop booing Steven Smith, who was returning after a suspension. Before the start of the 2020-21 Test series, the question arose as to whether the mutual respect between both teams would compromise the intensity of the game. On the eve of the first Test in Adelaide, Kohli explained that the relationship between both teams has improved because many players share teams in the IPL, which facilitates mutual understanding. In addition, the players are now more mature and aware of their place in the world. Since the Cape Town incident, Australia has recognized the need to improve its behavior, seeking a balance between competitiveness and exemplary conduct.

This year has made people realize that many things might not have been necessary in the past, where grudges were held and there was unnecessary tension between teams and individuals, which is absolutely useless.

Virat Kohli

Kohli highlighted that, although aggression and competitiveness on the field remain, the unnecessary has been filtered out. There is more respect between the teams, and he hopes that cricket will continue to be competitive. The Indian captain also pointed out that the players are learning to make smarter decisions, prioritizing the quality of cricket.

Kohli, known for his competitive style, is respected in Australia, and was questioned about whether the players feel vilified at certain moments. He responded that the role of the players is to give their all for the team, maintaining the dignity of the sport. The captain emphasized that high-quality cricket should not be compromised and that, although there will be difficult moments and tension, the rivalry is not expected to become personal. The quality of the game must prevail, and recognition of the efforts of both teams comes at the end of the five days. In summary, the intensity and competitiveness on the field between India and Australia will be maintained, but with a focus on mutual respect and the quality of cricket.