'Virat Kohli Is Australian..,' Steve Smith's Interesting Compliment For India's Batting Great
Virat Kohli with Steve Smith (X.co)
Ahead of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, veteran Australian batter Steve Smith has once again given an exciting insight into what goes inside Virat Kohli on the cricket field. Smith termed Kohli "Australian", implying that the former Indian captain has a combative spirit and an insatiable drive to have his way.
According to Smith, Virat Kohli's cricket concept is no different—fiercely competitive and tactically aggressive—qualities tagged with Aussies.
"I believe Virat Kohli is Australian in thoughts and action. The way he gets into a battle, the way he gets into the challenge and tries to get on top of the opposition. He's probably the most Australian of the Indian players, I'd say," Smith said in a video posted by Star Sports on 'X'.
It will be a series reviving the rivalry between India and Australia, with matches scheduled in Perth, Adelaide—a pink-ball test—and Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Still, despite all the pressures surrounding the series, Smith has caught the eye by insisting that he isn't focused on any individual rivalry but on how he can help Australia succeed.
“There’s no real, I need to beat him or anything like that. It’s just about going out and playing and trying to score as many runs as I can and helping Australia have success. That’s what it’s all about,” he added.
Kohli and Smith Share A Friendly Bond
He also expressed his admiration for Kohli, noting their positive relationship and mutual respect.
“We get on quite well, share messages every now and again. Look he’s a great guy and obviously a wonderful player. So, it’s gonna be nice to come up against him again this summer.”
How Many Times Has India Won BGT?
India have a rich history in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, having won it ten times, compared to Australia’s five victories. Australia’s most recent win was in the 2014-15 series, with their last triumph in India dating back to 2004-05. Currently, India is on a four-series winning streak. If they secure a victory in the upcoming series, they will have held the trophy for over a decade.