Kohli: High-Voltage Cricket, No Unnecessary Tension in India vs Australia

From Shikhar Dhawan’s provocative gestures towards Shane Watson in 2013 to David Warner’s controversy in 2014-15, the rivalry between India and Australia has been synonymous with intensity on the field. There was a time when the tension between both teams almost came to blows. The India tour to Australia in 2018-19 promised to be the most tense, but the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town marked a turning point. In the subsequent series, the atmosphere was more pleasant, without the hostility to which he had become accustomed. India’s captain, Virat Kohli, asked the fans to stop booing Steven Smith, showing a change in attitude. Before the start of the 2020-21 Test series, some wonder if 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 players sharing experiences in the IPL, which allows them to get to know each other better. In addition, the maturity of the players has influenced this change. Australia has recognized the need to improve its behavior, seeking a balance between competitiveness and exemplary conduct. This year, people’s priorities have changed.

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 tension 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 believes that relationships will no longer be as personal, highlighting the importance of the quality of cricket. Although the competition will continue, the “unnecessary material” will be filtered out. There is more respect between the teams, but the intensity of the game will be maintained. The Indian captain emphasized that the game should be competitive, with tension and emotions, but without getting personal. The players are maturing and making smarter decisions to ensure the quality of cricket. Kohli is valued in Australia for his attitude on the field. When asked if the players feel vilified, Kohli responded that the players know what is required for the team. The quality of cricket is not compromised, and the dignity of the sport must be maintained. Kohli stated that during the five days of play, the fans will try to make things difficult for the teams, but in the end, the effort of both should be appreciated. There will be a high level of competition, and the game between India and Australia will continue to be intense.