Kohli: India vs Australia, Intense Cricket without Unnecessary Tension

From moments of tension on the field to the recognition of change, the rivalry between India and Australia has evolved significantly. We recall incidents such as Shikhar Dhawan’s mockery of an injured Shane Watson in 2013 and David Warner’s role as an instigator on the 2014-15 tour. There was a time when the rivalry seemed on the verge of coming to blows. However, after the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town, something changed. The 2018-19 series showed a more pleasant atmosphere, distant from the previous hostility. Virat Kohli, India’s captain, even asked the fans to stop booing Steven Smith, showing a new respect. Before the start of the 2020-21 test series, the question arose as to whether this respect would affect the intensity of the matches. Kohli responded that the relationship between both teams has improved due to the encounters in the IPL and that the players know each other better.

These teams play a lot in the IPL together and know each other better.

Virat Kohli

Australia, for its part, has recognized the need to improve its behavior, seeking a balance between competitiveness and exemplary conduct. Kohli added that this year has led people to re-evaluate priorities and put aside unnecessary grudges. Kohli believes that relationships will no longer be as personal, as players understand that they contribute to a greater cause and that the quality of cricket must prevail. Although the game will continue to be intense and competitive, unnecessary behavior is expected to be filtered out and there will be more respect between teams. The Indian captain acknowledged that Australia has changed “to some extent”, highlighting the influence of the IPL, the shift in Australian focus, and the current situation. Everyone is grateful for the opportunity to play, and although the intensity remains, the unnecessary has been removed. Kohli emphasized that the game will remain competitive, with tension and emotions, but without getting personal. The more experienced players will make smarter decisions to maintain the quality of cricket.

Kohli, admired in Australia for his competitive spirit, was asked about how players feel about giving their all within the rules. He responded that the players understand what is required for the team and that the quality of cricket should not be compromised. Kohli concluded that, although there will be difficult moments and tension on the field, respect is fundamental. The essence of test cricket lies in competitiveness and in the ability to appreciate the effort of both teams at the end of the five days, without taking anything off the field. In other words, tough but fair. How Australian can Kohli get?