Tuesday, 03 December 2024
Tuesday, 03 December 2024
Virat Kohli remains a symbol of passion and dedication, inspiring millions both on and off the field. Known for his fierce competitiveness, Kohli’s on-field rivalries have not only pushed him to raise his game but also brought immense entertainment to fans. From showdowns with legendary bowlers to head-to-head battles with other top batsmen, Kohli’s career is a story of unmatched determination and resilience.
As Kohli’s legacy continues to grow, The Telegraph Online looks at those rivalries that have kept audiences on the edge of their seats, making each game more thrilling.
Virat Kohli vs. James Anderson (2014 & 2018)
Kohli’s rivalry with England’s fast bowler James Anderson is one of the most talked about in cricket. It started during India’s 2014 tour of England. Anderson dominated Kohli, dismissing him four times in the Tests and exposing his vulnerability to the cricket fans on the field. In 2018, Kohli returned, ready to conquer the challenge. He scored 593 runs in the series, ruling over Anderson swing deliveries.
Virat Kohli vs. Steve Smith (2014)
Kohli and Australia’s Steve Smith have shared a long-standing rivalry over who holds the title of the world’s best batsman. Their rivalry peaked during the 2014 India-Australia series. Kohli’s aggressive style contrasts with Smith’s unorthodox technique. This rivalry also led Kohli to push his limits, leaving him aiming to outscore Smith whenever they played against each other. Their rivalry made every India-Australia series a must-watch.
Virat Kohli vs. Kane Williamson (2010)
Kohli and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson’s rivalry grounded in mutual respect and camaraderie. Kohli’s intensity and Williamson’s calm demeanor are well-known. They’ve battled to lead their teams to victory. In the 2021 World Test Championship final, Williamson’s calmness won as New Zealand took the title. But this rivalry showcases Kohli’s adaptability and respect for worthy opponents.
Virat Kohli vs. Ben Stokes: (2016)
The 2016 India-England Test series in India saw Kohli and England’s Ben Stokes engage in multiple heated exchanges. Stokes’ aggressive approach matched Kohli’s and led to intense face-offs. This rivalry pushed Kohli to stay calm under pressure and focus on his performance, leading him to score a mammoth 655 runs in five Tests against England.
Virat Kohli vs. Gautam Gambhir: (2013 & 2023)
Kohli’s rivalry with former Indian teammate Gautam Gambhir is among the most talked-about feuds in the IPL. It started in 2013 when Gambhir’s Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore, leading to a heated on-field argument, where both charged towards each other before being stopped by others. Both had another confrontational exchange in the 2023 IPL, when Gambhir was the coach of KKR.
