From on-field provocations to on-pitch disputes, the rivalry between India and Australia has been intense. However, there seems to be a change in the atmosphere. India’s tour of Australia in 2018-19 promised to be one of the most tense, but the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town marked a turning point. In the past, clashes between both teams could border on physical violence. Now, a change in dynamics is observed. During the World Cup, India’s captain, Virat Kohli, asked fans to stop booing Steven Smith, showing renewed respect. Before 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, when asked about the improved relationships, attributes this change to several factors, including the players’ cohabitation in the IPL and the maturity of the protagonists. After the incident in Cape Town, Australia has recognized the need to improve its behavior, seeking a balance between competitiveness and exemplary conduct.
The Indian captain emphasizes that the quality of cricket should be the most important thing. Although competition and aggression on the field remain essential, the unnecessary has been filtered out. Kohli acknowledges that Australia has changed its approach and that the shared experience in the IPL has strengthened the respect between the teams. Despite the intensity, the game is expected to remain competitive, but without getting personal. The maturity of the players and the best decisions on the field guarantee the quality of cricket. Kohli, admired in Australia for his game, believes that appreciation for the performance and character of the players should arise at the end of the five days of play.“This year has also made people realize that many things may not have been necessary in the past, where one holds grudges and has unnecessary tensions between teams and individuals, which is absolutely useless,” said Kohli.
Virat Kohli
