The rivalry between India and Australia, one of the most intense in the world of cricket, has undergone a notable evolution. From tense moments and provocations on the field, to an atmosphere of greater respect and camaraderie, the relationship between both teams has changed significantly. In the past, the confrontation between India and Australia often bordered on physical violence, with incidents such as Shikhar Dhawan mocking an injured Shane Watson or David Warner acting as the official provocateur. However, India’s tour of Australia in 2018-19 marked a turning point, especially after the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town. The subsequent series was characterized by friendly banter instead of the hostility that had been accustomed. In addition, the Indian captain, Virat Kohli, asked Indian fans to stop booing Steven Smith, showing a gesture of respect towards the Australian player.
Ahead of the start of the 2020-21 Test series, the question is whether this new respect will compromise the intensity of the matches. Kohli, when asked about the improved relationships, attributed the change to several factors, including the players’ coexistence in the IPL and the maturity of everyone involved.
Australia, after the incident in Cape Town, has recognized the need to improve its behavior, seeking a balance between competitiveness and exemplary conduct. Kohli highlighted how the year 2020 has led people to re-evaluate their priorities, recognizing the futility of holding grudges and unnecessary tensions. The Indian captain emphasized the importance of cricket quality above all else. Although aggression and competitiveness will remain present, personal attitudes and unnecessary conflicts have been reduced. Furthermore, Kohli acknowledged that Australia has changed its approach to some extent, influenced by experience in the IPL and personal reflection. According to Kohli, mutual respect has increased on the field, without compromising the intensity of the game. He acknowledged that the exchange of banter is inevitable in high-level cricket, but emphasized that he no longer expects things to be as personal as before. Players, with more years of experience, have learned to make smarter decisions, prioritizing the quality of cricket. Kohli’s opinion on the change in the relationship between India and Australia is that it is the result of a combination of factors, including experience in the IPL, the change in Australia’s approach, and personal reflection. Although the competition will remain fierce, mutual respect has increased on the field.These teams play together a lot in the IPL and therefore know each other better.
Virat Kohli
