From on-field provocations to heated clashes, the rivalry between India and Australia has been intense. However, there seems to be a shift in the way these two teams face each other. The 2013 incident, where Shikhar Dhawan mocked an injured Shane Watson, and David Warner’s controversy as the “official instigator” in 2014-15, are examples of on-field tension. There was a time when the rivalry was about to come to blows, but something changed. The ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town altered the landscape. The 2018-19 series had moments of tension, but not as aggressive as before. Even Indian captain Virat Kohli asked fans to stop booing Steven Smith, showing a gesture of respect.
Ahead of the start of the 2020-21 test series, the question arises as to whether this new respect will compromise the intensity of the matches. Kohli attributes the improved relationships to several factors, including the number of players playing together in the IPL and the growth of the players.
Australia has recognized the need to improve its behavior, seeking a balance between competitiveness and exemplary conduct. Kohli highlights that the maturity and experience of the players contribute to greater intelligence in their decisions, prioritizing the quality of cricket. The Indian captain believes that the rivalry remains, but without becoming personal. Despite the intensity and stress, it is expected that the “unnecessary things” will filter out on their own, fostering respect between the teams.“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 tension between teams and individuals, which is absolutely useless”.
Virat Kohli
