Indian cricketer Virat Kohli spoke about the rivalry with Australia ahead of the ICC World Test Championship final. He said that after defeating Australia twice in their backyard, the rivalry has now turned into respect and they are now on the same page with each other.
The India-Australia rivalry has taken a new turn after India claimed two consecutive series victories. Until then, it was the Australian team that dominated the Indian team. But after that it has been India all together.
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The series win in 2020-21 is something that will remain fresh in many fans’ minds. India suffered a humiliating defeat in the first game in Adelaide as they were hit by just 36 runs. The older players were injured, and despite all the obstacles, they rallied to win the series 2-1 under substitute captain Ajinkya Rahane.
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Virat Kohli, speaking about the India-Australia rivalry, said that they now have a presence and are on the same level as Australia. Speaking to Star Sports, he said:
“The rivalry between India and Australia, in the early days, used to be very intense. There used to be a tense atmosphere. But after we won 2 series in Australia, the rivalry turned into respect. We cannot be taken lightly as a test team. We can see the respect that the oppositions have for us.
“They expect us to put up a close fight even on their terms. We can no longer be taken lightly. There used to be tension in the air in the past. But that’s not there now. You have your presence now, now there is a level playing field”.
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ICC World Test Championship final: “The best-adapted team will prevail,” says Virat Kohli
The two teams are now scheduled to face each other in the ultimate test. India and Australia will meet in the final of the ICC World Test Championship Final. The highly successful clash will take place at The Oval, England, from June 7-11, with June 12 being reserve day. Both teams will play at the neutral venue and it promises to be an exciting game.
Virat Kohli feels that adapting to the conditions will be key for the ICC WTC final. He also highlighted the conditions at the Oval and elaborated:
“You can’t expect a certain type of condition when you go out and hit at the Oval. There is a need to quickly adapt and adjust. It is a unique match for both teams. The team that best suits will prevail. This is the beauty of the WTC, there are two teams in a neutral place. And the nice thing is to see how the two teams adapt”.
This is the second time India has reached the final of the ICC World Test Championship Final. They suffered a disappointing loss against New Zealand in the previous final. They would hope to change things this time. It’s fair to say that from the way things have unfolded in recent months, Virat Kohli will be crucial to India’s chances.
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