16/03/2023
One of the most intense and memorable battles in recent Test cricket history was the showdown between Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli and Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson during the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
The rivalry began in the first Test of the series in Adelaide, where Johnson produced a fiery spell of fast bowling to dismiss Kohli for just 1 run in the first innings. Kohli, known for his aggressive on-field demeanor, was visibly frustrated by his dismissal and exchanged words with Johnson as he walked back to the pavilion.
However, Kohli was not one to back down from a challenge and came back with a vengeance in the second Test in Brisbane. Facing Johnson once again, he played a stunning knock of 141 runs, taking the attack to the Australian bowlers with his aggressive strokeplay and fearless attitude.
Johnson, known for his intimidating pace and bounce, tried his best to unsettle Kohli with short-pitched deliveries and verbal sledging, but Kohli remained unfazed and continued to play his shots with confidence. His innings helped India post a competitive total of 408 in the first innings.
The battle between Kohli and Johnson continued in the third Test in Melbourne, where Kohli once again showed his class with a gritty knock of 169 in the first innings. Johnson tried his best to rattle Kohli with his pace and aggression, but Kohli stood firm and played some stunning cover drives and flick shots to counter the Australian attack.
Despite Kohli's heroics, Australia eventually won the series 2-0, but the Kohli-Johnson rivalry had left a lasting impression on cricket fans around the world. Kohli's fearlessness and determination to take on one of the world's most fearsome bowlers had earned him the respect of cricketing legends and fans alike.
