Kohli calls for high-voltage CRICKET: Goodbye to unnecessary tension in India vs Australia

From Shikhar Dhawan’s gestures towards an injured Shane Watson in 2013, to David Warner’s controversy as the “official instigator” on the 2014-15 tour, the rivalry between India and Australia has had heated moments. On-field clashes and tensions that 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 marked a turning point. Despite the rivalry between both teams being maintained, a change has been noticed. Virat Kohli, captain of India, 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 arises as to whether mutual respect will compromise the intensity of the matches. On the eve of the first Test in Adelaide, Kohli explained that the relationship has improved thanks to the fact that the players share a team in the IPL, which allows them to get to know each other better. In addition, the maturity of the players and their place in the world have influenced.

Since the incident in Cape Town, Australia has acknowledged its behavior and sought a balance between competitiveness and good conduct. Kohli highlights that this year has led to reflection, eliminating unnecessary tensions and prioritizing professionalism and aggressiveness in the game.

I think this year has also made people realize that many things might not have been necessary in the past, where you hold grudges and have unnecessary tensions between teams and individuals, which is absolutely useless. You’re still going to be professional and make sure you’re positive and aggressive in your body language and the way you do things on the field.

Virat Kohli

Kohli acknowledges that Australia has changed “to some extent”, influenced by the IPL, Australia’s attitude and the current situation. He emphasizes that the focus is on the quality of cricket, hoping that the game remains competitive. India’s captain highlights that the respect between both teams is greater, although the intensity and competitiveness will not be compromised. He believes that the rivalry will remain intense, but without becoming personal, as the players are more mature and make better decisions. Kohli is well-regarded in Australia for his attitude, which has earned him the respect of the fans. The player explains that on the field, the aim is to give one’s best within the rules, prioritizing the team’s game. He acknowledges that the quality of cricket should not be compromised and that tension and competitiveness are part of the game. Kohli emphasizes that the goal is to play high-level cricket, with difficult moments and confrontations, but always with respect. At the end of the five days, the effort of both teams is valued, without transferring tensions off the field. The competition between India and Australia will remain intense, with quality players seeking victory for their teams. In short, the game will be tough but fair, maintaining the essence of the rivalry.