Kohli commended Smith’s adaptability, extraordinary consistency, and significant impact on the game. With both players having impressive records against each other’s teams, their upcoming clash in the final promises to be an exhilarating battle.
Steve Smith: The Epitome of Consistency and Adaptability
Virat Kohli’s first impressions of Steve Smith in test cricket is “amazing”. His admiration for Steve Smith stems from the latter’s exceptional adaptability and unwavering consistency on the cricket field. With a staggering average of 60 in 85-90 Tests, Smith’s performance is nothing short of remarkable.
His ability to adapt to different playing conditions and opponents sets him apart as one of the most formidable Test players of this era. Kohli acknowledged that Smith’s consistent run-scoring ability, coupled with his immense impact on matches, distinguishes him from his contemporaries.
While talking to Star Sports, Virat Kohli said:
Steve Smith, according to me, is the best Test player of this generation. He has displayed that his adaptability is absolutely brilliant. You take any cricketer of this generation… in 85-90 Tests, he has an average of 60 which is quite unbelievable.
The consistency and impact with which he scores runs, I haven’t seen anyone else doing that in the last 10 years. Definitely, Steve Smith, along with Marnus Labuschagne, are their main players in the batting order because they control their batting line-up.
A Rivalry to Watch: Kohli vs. Smith
The rivalry between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith adds an extra layer of excitement to any match featuring India and Australia. Kohli admitted that dismissing Smith early is crucial, given his potential to single-handedly turn the tide in Australia’s favor.
Both players have impressive records against each other’s teams, further intensifying their personal battle. Kohli has amassed 1,979 runs against Australia at an average of 48.26, including eight Test centuries and five fifties. Similarly, Smith has scored 1,887 runs against India (before the Oval Test) at an average of 65.06, with eight Test centuries and five fifties.
Kohli’s highest Test score against Australia is 186 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, while Smith’s highest against India is 192 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. These achievements highlight their immense contribution to their respective teams’ success.
Noteworthy Performances on the Global Stage
Beyond their encounters, both Kohli and Smith have showcased their skills on the global stage. Kohli has a commendable record in ICC knockout matches, accumulating 620 runs in 16 innings at an average of over 51. Smith, on the other hand, has scored 322 runs (before the Oval Test) in seven knockout innings, averaging an impressive 80.5, including a century and three fifties.
As the world eagerly awaits the World Test Championship final, it is worth noting that Australia finished at the top of the table with 11 wins, three losses, and five draws in 19 Tests. India secured the second position with 10 wins, five losses, and three draws. Kohli’s presence as a key batsman and leader has contributed significantly to India’s success in the tournament.
Virat Kohli’s praise for Steve Smith as the best Test player of their generation showcases the respect and admiration these cricketing legends have for each other’s skills. Smith’s adaptability, remarkable consistency, and match-winning impact make him a force to be reckoned with.
As the World Test Championship final approaches, fans anticipate an enthralling clash between these two cricketing powerhouses. The battle between Kohli and Smith promises to be a captivating spectacle, as they continue to push the boundaries of Test cricket and entertain fans worldwide.