Smith Is Best Test Player Of This Generation — Kohli

Smith Is Best Test Player Of This Generation — Kohli

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In a recent video interview before the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli heaped praise on his Australian counterpart, Steve Smith, hailing him as the “best Test player” of their generation. Kohli’s remarks shed light on the respect and admiration he holds for Smith’s incredible skills and accomplishments on the cricket field.

Virat Kohli began by acknowledging Smith’s exceptional adaptability, citing it as a key factor in his success. With an astonishing average of 60 in 85-90 Test matches, Smith’s consistency and impact in scoring runs have been unparalleled over the past decade. According to Kohli, no other player in the last ten years has displayed the same level of performance as Smith has consistently achieved. The Indian batsman further emphasized that Smith, along with Marnus Labuschagne, holds a vital position in the Australian batting lineup, exerting control over their team’s fortunes.

Kohli’s admiration for Smith stems not only from his exceptional statistics but also from his ability to perform against India and in challenging conditions such as England. The Indian captain recognizes the need to dismiss Smith quickly due to his potential to single-handedly win matches. Smith’s highest Test score against India stands at an impressive 192 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, while Kohli’s highest Test score against Australia is 186 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, highlighting the intense competition between the two batters.

Delving deeper into their head-to-head statistics, Kohli has accumulated 1,979 runs against Australia in Tests at an average of 48.26, with eight centuries and five half-centuries. Similarly, Smith has amassed 1,887 runs against India at an astounding average of 65.06, including eight centuries and five half-centuries. These figures highlight the immense talent and contribution of both players in matches between India and Australia.

The conversation doesn’t end with their individual performances against each other. Kohli and Smith’s records in ICC knockout matches provide further insights into their exceptional abilities under pressure. In 15 knockout matches, Kohli has accumulated 620 runs at an average of over 51, with six half-centuries. In comparison, Smith has scored 322 runs in seven knockout innings at an impressive average of 80.5, including a century and three half-centuries. These statistics demonstrate their ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are high.

Beyond their encounters against each other, both Kohli and Smith have left indelible marks in their respective overseas performances. During tours to Australia, Kohli has registered six centuries and five half-centuries, amassing a total of 1033 runs at an average of 33.32. In contrast, Smith has achieved three centuries and a half-century in India, accumulating a total of 1727 runs at an average of 59.55. These figures showcase their adaptability and success in unfamiliar conditions.

The English pitches have also witnessed the mastery of Kohli and Smith. Kohli has accumulated 1033 runs in England, with a highest score of 149, at an average of 33.32 and a strike rate of 51.59. In comparison, Smith has scored 1727 runs, including a highest score of 215, at an impressive average of 59.55 and a strike rate of 61.41. Both players have displayed their skills and temperament in England, contributing significantly to their teams’ performances.

As the WTC final approached, Australia topped the table with 11 wins, three losses, and five draws in 19 matches, while India secured the second position with 10 wins, five losses, and three draws. The clash between these two powerhouses promised to be a battle of skill, determination, and the ability to perform under pressure.

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