The cricket rivalry between India and Australia has evolved into one of the most intense showdowns in the sport, with Virat Kohli consistently leading the charge against the Kangaroos.
In one of cricket’s most riveting showdowns, India and Australia clashed at The Oval in a battle that had fans on the edge of their seats. With intense competition and high stakes, the match was a spectacle that showcased the best of both teams.
As the World Test Championship final unfolded, tensions ran high. India, trailing in the chase with Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane at the crease, had their sights set on a historic win. Yet, Australia, known for their resilience, refused to yield.
Throughout the match, Kohli’s presence loomed large, instigating exchanges and pushing the Australians to their limits. With his reputation as a chase-master, the stage was set for a legendary performance.
However, despite Kohli’s efforts, Australia maintained their composure. Players like Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Nathan Lyon, and Scott Boland revealed their thoughts on facing Kohli, acknowledging the challenge he posed.
Ultimately, it was Australia’s superior performance on the final day that sealed their victory. Kohli’s dismissal by Boland and Rahane’s departure dashed India’s hopes of a miraculous comeback, highlighting the fierce competition between the two cricketing powerhouses.
Pat Cummins: “Virat Kohli is the one guy who can chase it down in the fourth innings.”
Steve Smith: “If you look at people chasing the total, Virat Kohli is up there with the best, if not the best.”
Justin Langer: “He’s been a killer against Australia.”
Nathan Lyon: “He is super competitive and doesn’t give you an inch. No one comes close to him.”
Ravi Shastri: “When he comes out to bat, Virat makes people around the globe, even the opposition stands up and look. They might not like it but they’ll watch.”
Scott Boland: “Going into that last day, we still thought that if they got on a roll, Kohli could still pull off that chase.”
As Langer aptly pointed out, Kohli has consistently thrived when facing Australia. Throughout 25 Tests, he’s amassed 2042 runs against the current WTC champions, boasting an average of 47.49. Among those runs are eight centuries and five fifties, a testament to his prowess against the Aussies.
It’s worth noting that the next clash between India and Australia is set for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, slated to kick off on June 1 in the USA and the Caribbean.
