NEW DELHI: Batting maestro Virat Kohli feels that the fierce rivalry between India and Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has evolved over the years.
Initially marked by intensity and fierce competition, Kohli noted that the relationship has shifted towards respect especially after India’s two successive Test series Down Under.
Regarded as one of the most high-profile rivalries in Test cricket, the series has often seen heated exchanges and aggressive gameplay.However, Kohli explained that with time, both teams have developed a greater understanding and admiration for each other’s skills and achievements.
Kohli echoed his sentiments on the Star Sports promo for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting on November 22, which will also be the first five-match Test series between the two teams since 1991/92.
Talking about rivalry, Kohli said: “It was quite intense at the beginning, but I think since the time we had won two Test series in Australia, the rivalry has turned into respect.”
“We are not taken lightly now as a Test team. The respect looks quite visible when you play against Australia since we have beaten them for back-to-back series wins at their own backyard,” Kohli further said.
The all-important five-match series will begin at Perth followed by Adelaide (pink-ball game), Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney respectively.
India’s recent Test series win against Bangladesh consolidated their position at the top of the WTC standings with eight wins, two losses and a draw from 11 matches played for a collective 98 points. The thumping win took their points percentage to 74.24.
After beating Bangladesh, if India go ahead and beat New Zealand 3-0 at home, they will qualify for the WTC final, scheduled to take place at Lord’s in June 2025, even before landing in Australia.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will then become a matter of the World’s No. 1 team playing for pride and retaining the series.