Kohli: Goodbye to the tension in India vs Australia cricket, lack of tension in the game!

The rivalry between India and Australia, marked by moments of high tension, has undergone a significant evolution. From verbal confrontations and on-field provocations, to the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town, the landscape has changed. In the past, the intensity of the matches between both teams almost came to blows. However, after the incident in Cape Town, something changed. The 2018-19 series was characterized by an exchange of jokes, moving away from the hostility that was accustomed. In addition, the captain of India, Virat Kohli, asked the fans to stop booing Steven Smith, who was returning after serving his suspension.

Before the start of the 2020-21 test series, the question is whether this new respect between the teams will compromise the intensity of the matches.

On the eve of the first Test in Adelaide, Kohli explained that the best relationships are due to the teams playing together in the IPL and knowing each other better. In addition, the players are now more mature and aware of their place. Australia has acknowledged its past behavior and seeks a balance between competitiveness and sportsmanship. This year, people’s priorities have changed, realizing the unnecessary nature of certain tensions. It’s a combination of all those factors. 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. The Indian captain emphasized that the quality of cricket should be the most important thing. Although competition and aggression will still be present, unnecessary attitudes will filter out on their own.

Kohli acknowledged that Australia has changed its approach, partly due to playing in the IPL and the current situation. The respect between the teams is greater, without compromising the intensity of the game. Debate and tension are inherent in high-level cricket, but without getting personal. Players have matured and will make smarter decisions to maintain the quality of the game. Kohli is highly respected in Australia for his way of playing. The player understands that the media has the right to their opinion, but the players must give their best for their team. In high-level cricket, quality is paramount. Competence and aggression are expected, but not disrespect. The goal is for the teams to give their all and that, at the end of the five days, the effort is recognized. The match will be competitive, with quality players seeking victory.