Virat Kohli's Most Intense Test Cricket Rivalries: A Look Back
Virat Kohli's Retirement Announcement and His Journey
The announcement of Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket on May 12 has left fans in disbelief. His journey as a player is one of the most captivating stories in international cricket. Kohli has transformed from a fiery and rebellious batsman to a more composed and mature athlete representing the Indian cricket team. His competitive spirit, particularly against Australian players, has been evident through his expressions and body language. Below, we explore Kohli's top five most intense confrontations in Test cricket, showcasing his dedication and passion for the game, regardless of the opponent or circumstances.
Top 5 Fiercest Confrontations in Test Cricket
- Virat Kohli vs James Anderson (India – England, 2014 & 2016)
2014 (England Tour): During this tour, Kohli struggled with his batting and faced constant scrutiny from Anderson, leading to numerous heated exchanges.
2016 (India Tour): In contrast, Kohli excelled in the home series and openly discussed his interactions with Anderson, especially after scoring a century in Mumbai.
- Virat Kohli vs Steve Smith
“Brain Fade” Controversy: In a Test match in Bengaluru, Smith sought DRS advice from the dressing room, which is against the rules. Kohli openly criticized this behavior, emphasizing that such actions could not justify the ongoing disputes between the teams. Their rivalry has become a significant aspect of contemporary cricket.
- Virat Kohli vs Tim Paine
Throughout the series, both captains engaged in several fiery exchanges. A memorable moment occurred during the Perth Test when their banter was caught on the stump mic. Paine remarked, “You’re not liked by your own teammates,” to which Kohli responded with a piercing glare, prompting umpires to intervene to prevent further escalation.
- Virat Kohli vs Ben Stokes (India vs England 2021)
During the Chennai Test, Kohli confronted Stokes after the latter directed loud profanities at Indian bowler Siraj. The two engaged in a heated argument but ultimately resolved their differences amicably.
- Virat Kohli vs Australian Crowd (Sydney & Melbourne Tests)
Kohli has faced criticism from Australian crowds, particularly during the 2011 and 2014 series. Notably, he infamously gestured with his middle finger at the Sydney crowd in the 2011-12 series, later explaining it as a reaction to their verbal taunts.