The intensity on the field between India and Australia has been legendary, marked by memorable moments and palpable tensions. From player provocations to mental battles, the rivalry has been a constant spectacle. However, there seems to be a change in the air.
In the past, the confrontation reached a point where physical confrontations were feared. India’s tour to Australia in 2018-19 promised to be the most tense, but before that, the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town marked a turning point.
The subsequent series was characterized by a banter exchange, very different from the hostility that used to accompany the encounters between both teams. In addition, the Indian captain, Virat Kohli, asked the fans to stop booing Steven Smith, who was returning after a suspension.
Before the start of the 2020-21 test series, the question is whether this new mutual respect will compromise the intensity of the game. Kohli explained that the good relationships are due to the teams playing together in the IPL, which allows them to get to know each other better. In addition, the players are now more mature and more secure in their place.
After the incident in Cape Town, Australia acknowledged that its behavior needed to improve and strived to find a balance between competitiveness and good behavior. Also, the current context has led people to re-evaluate their priorities.
This year has made people realize that many things might not have been necessary in the past, where you held grudges and had unnecessary tensions between teams and individuals, which is absolutely useless.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli: “El reconocimiento al rendimiento de alguien o a su coraje y carácter llega al final de los cinco días, eso es lo que creo”Kohli also highlighted that high-quality play should be the most important thing. Competitiveness and aggression on the field will continue, but the unnecessary will be filtered out. There is more respect between the teams, and he hopes that cricket will continue to be competitive.
The Indian captain emphasized that the banter will continue, as it is part of the highest level of cricket. However, he does not foresee things becoming personal. Players are maturing and will make better decisions to ensure the quality of the game.
Kohli is highly respected in Australia for his playing style, which makes him a “non-Australian Australian”.
Regarding the perception of the players, Kohli stated that the media has the right to interpret things as they wish. The players, for their part, understand what is required for the team at every moment, seeking the advancement of the team, whether on the field or in their body language.
At the highest level, the quality of cricket cannot be compromised. The dignity of the sport must be maintained, but it must also be understood that competition is at the highest level. There will be difficult moments and teams that will clash, but not in a disrespectful manner.
In summary, the rivalry between India and Australia remains intense and competitive, but with a focus on fair play. Appreciation for the effort and character of the players will be given at the end of each match, without taking anything off the field. The excitement of test cricket will be maintained with the same intensity.
