Border Gavaskar Trophy: When Virat Kohli-Mitchell Johnson confrontation elevated the intensity of India-Australia rivalry

NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli's aggression against Australia has been a defining feature of his career, particularly in Test cricket. His fiery temperament, combined with his exceptional batting ability, made him a key figure in India's competitive rivalry with Australia.
Kohli's aggression often manifests both in his on-field behavior and his performances with the bat, which have been some of his best against Australia.
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Kohli has never shied away from confrontations with Australian players. He has had verbal spats with players like Mitchell Johnson, Tim Paine, and others. His combative attitude has set the tone for many India-Australia series, where both sides engage in mental and physical battles.
During the 2014 Border-Gavaskar series in Australia, Kohli had several verbal exchanges with Johnson, as well as Australian fielders. He stood his ground, responding to sledging with aggressive batting and words.
The 2014 series was the height of Kohli-Johnson rivalry, where tempers flared between the two. Kohli was in great form, scoring multiple centuries. Johnson, one of the most aggressive fast bowlers, tried to unsettle Kohli with his pace and verbal aggression.
During the third Test in Melbourne, Johnson's throw hit Kohli on the body, and the two exchanged heated words.
Kohli went on to score a magnificent 169 as the Boxing Day Test ended in a draw.
Johnson, known for his hostility with the ball, often bowled aggressive short-pitched deliveries aimed at Kohli. Kohli, on the other hand, thrived under pressure, countering Johnson's bowling with attacking strokes and engaging in verbal battles.
Kohli consistently dominated Johnson with the bat, particularly in the 2014 series, where he amassed over 600 runs, including four centuries. His confidence and fearlessness made the rivalry even more intense, as Kohli often gave it back verbally to Johnson.
The Kohli vs Johnson rivalry is remembered for its sheer intensity, with both players being highly competitive. It encapsulates the classic India-Australia cricketing rivalry, where both nations bring out their best and play with aggression.
The battles between Johnson and Kohli remain an iconic chapter in India-Australia cricket history.
Kohli's aggression has elevated the intensity of the India-Australia rivalry, bringing out the best in both teams. His confrontational approach, combined with his match-winning abilities, has made him a central figure in this modern-day rivalry. Kohli's presence and leadership made India believe they could beat Australia in any condition, be it home or away.
Kohli's confrontations with Australian players, captains, and even the media added drama and spice to every series, making Kohli vs Australia one of the most compelling narratives in cricket.