Ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, Australian cricket star Steve Smith shared his thoughts on his friendship with Virat Kohli. With what is to be his fifth tour of Australia, Kohli played 13 matches, amassing 1352 runs at an impressive average of 54.08. Known for his success in Australia, Kohli will aim to make a bigger impact in the upcoming Test series.
Smith said Kohli carries an aggressive mentality similar to Australian players, generally wanting to dominate the opposition. He expressed his excitement at the prospect of meeting Kohli in the Australian summer.
.@stevesmith49 describes @imVkohli in his own way, talks about his approach on the field and looks forward to face him in the #BorderGavaskarTrophy! 🏆
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) September 10, 2024
Catch them in action in #BGTonStar, FRI 22 NOV onwards! 🏏 pic.twitter.com/29ruvJSUpk
“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,” Smith said while talking to Star Sports.
“I believe Virat Kohli is Australian in thoughts and action. The way he gets into it at all the way 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,” he added.
There’s No Real, I Need To Beat Him Or Anything Like That: Steve Smith
Smith believes there is no rivalry between him and Kohli. The 35-year-old turned to opener when David Warner retired from Test cricket. Apart from an unbeaten 91 against the West Indies in the second innings at the Gabba, his form is yet to peak.
It is not uncertain whether Smith will open in the upcoming series against India. However, he is focused on performing well and helping Australia win rather than focusing on competing with Kohli.
“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,” Smith said.
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