Kohli: High-Voltage Cricket vs. Unnecessary Tension in India vs. Australia

From on-field provocations to verbal battles, the rivalry between India and Australia has been legendary. However, there seems to be a change in the air. Is the intensity on the field transforming?

A Tumultuous Past

In the past, the rivalry between India and Australia was marked by tense moments and confrontations. From Shikhar Dhawan mocking an injured Shane Watson in 2013, to David Warner acting as the official provocateur in 2014-15. The intensity reached a peak, with on-field fights and constant friction. The ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town marked a turning point. The 2018-19 series seemed destined to be the tensest, but something changed after this incident.

A New Respect

The 2018-19 series presented a different atmosphere, with friendlier banter. Virat Kohli, India’s captain, even asked fans to stop booing Steven Smith, showing a change in the overall attitude. Before the start of the 2020-21 Test series, the question arises: Will this new respect compromise the intensity of the matches? Kohli attributes this change to several factors, including the increasing number of players playing together in the IPL and the maturity of the players.

“I think this year has also made people realize that a lot of things might not have been needed in the past, where you hold grudges and have unnecessary tensions between teams and individuals, which is absolutely pointless. You are still going to be professional and make sure you are positive and aggressive in your body language and the way you go about things on the field”.

Virat Kohli

Kohli acknowledges that Australia has changed its approach, but emphasizes that competition and aggression on the field will remain key elements. The intensity on the field will not be compromised, but unnecessary aspects are expected to be removed. There is more respect between teams, and cricket is expected to remain competitive. Kohli believes players are maturing and making smarter decisions. The quality of cricket remains paramount. In short, a more intense, but fair rivalry is expected. The quality of cricket will not be compromised, and mutual respect will prevail off the field. Kohli comments on the role of the media and the importance of doing what is necessary for the team. At the highest level, the quality of cricket cannot be compromised. Difficult moments are expected, but without disrespect. The essence of Test cricket is that the effort of both teams can be appreciated at the end of the five days, without anything being carried off the field. The game will remain competitive, with quality players seeking success.