From on-field provocations to heated clashes, the rivalry between India and Australia has been legendary. However, there seems to be a change in the air. The teams have shown greater maturity and mutual respect, especially after the ball-tampering incident in Cape Town.
India captain Virat Kohli has asked fans to stop booing players like Steven Smith, showing a new level of sportsmanship.
Before the start of the 2020-21 test series, the question arises as to whether this newfound respect will compromise the intensity of the matches.
A Change of Attitude
Kohli attributes the improved relations to several factors. One of them is the amount of time players from both teams spend together in the IPL, which has fostered greater mutual understanding.
It also highlights the maturity of the players and the understanding that there are unnecessary things in the past, such as grudges and tensions between teams and individuals.
Kohli emphasizes that, although the intensity and competitiveness on the field will be maintained, unnecessary attitudes are expected to be filtered out.
“I think this year has also made people realize that a lot of 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”.
Virat KohliVirat Kohli: “La apreciación por el desempeño de alguien o su coraje y carácter llega al final de cinco días, eso es lo que creo” (India Today Group/Getty Images)Kohli acknowledges that Australia has changed its approach and that there is now greater respect between the teams. However, this does not mean that the competition will decrease.
The Indian captain foresees greater intelligence and better decisions from everyone, ensuring that the quality of cricket is maintained.
In summary, the rivalry between India and Australia has evolved. While intensity and competitiveness remain key elements, a more respectful and less personal environment is expected on the field.
