Kohli asks for respect India vs Australia: Goodbye to tension, high-voltage cricket!

The rivalry between India and Australia in cricket has been legendary, marked by moments of high tension and confrontations. From Shikhar Dhawan’s provocations to an injured Shane Watson in 2013, to David Warner’s role as the “official provocateur” on the 2014-15 tour, and even the on-field fights, even after the tragic death of Phillip Hughes, the intensity was palpable. There was a time when the rivalry seemed on the verge of coming to blows. India’s tour of Australia in 2018-19 promised to be the most tense, but the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town changed the course. The subsequent series was characterized by friendly banter, in contrast to the usual hostility between both teams. Later, during the World Cup, India’s captain, Virat Kohli, asked fans to stop booing Steven Smith, who was returning to the field after a suspension. Before the start of the 2020-21 test series, the question arose as to whether the new respect between the teams would compromise the intensity of the matches.

Kohli analyzes the evolution of the rivalry

On the eve of the first match in Adelaide, Kohli attributed the improved relationships to the time they spend together in the IPL and the maturity of the players. He acknowledged that Australia has tried to improve its behavior after the Cape Town incident, seeking a balance between competitiveness and fair play.

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

Virat Kohli

Kohli emphasized the importance of the quality of cricket and the elimination of unnecessary hostility. Although intensity and competition will be maintained, he hopes that personal aspects will be filtered out. He believes there is more respect between the teams. The image shows Virat Kohli. The caption reads: “Appreciation for someone’s performance or courage and character comes at the end of five days, that’s what I believe.”

Kohli also highlighted the gratitude for being able to play, acknowledging that the series continue to be intense and competitive, but with fewer unnecessary elements. He anticipates that the “banter” will continue, but without becoming personal. He considers that the players are maturing and making smarter decisions to ensure the quality of cricket. Kohli, admired in Australia for his game, was questioned about how players perceive criticism. He responded that players understand what is required for the team and that, despite competitiveness, the dignity of the sport must be maintained. Although difficult moments and tension are inevitable, he hopes there will be no disrespect. He emphasized the importance of appreciating the effort of both teams at the end of the five days. Ultimately, expect a tough but fair cricket match, maintaining the historical intensity and competitiveness between India and Australia.