Former Australian cricketer Geoff Lawson anticipates that Virat Kohli will receive a mixed reception, while Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be warmly received by crowds during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The highly anticipated series between India and Australia is set to commence with the first Test in Perth on November 22.
Kohli has been a notable figure in the Australian crowd’s consciousness since his debut tour in 2011-12. In contrast, Bumrah, who has played only the last two Test series in Australia, has enjoyed significant success, contributing to India’s victories.
Previewing the series, Lawson shared his thoughts with Mid-Day:
“Virat Kohli will take on the role of the faux villain, while Jasprit Bumrah’s naturally likable demeanor will earn him a more favorable reception. Bumrah’s position as a fast bowler allows him the opportunity to interact with the crowd from fine leg, winning their smiles and hearts. Meanwhile, Kohli will be in the thick of the action, vocally appealing for decisions, fielding with intensity, and engaging in verbal exchanges with Australian players, which will certainly be a feature of the series.”
Lawson further noted that despite Kohli’s expected role as the antagonist, the Australian crowd appreciates his competitive spirit:
“Aussie crowds have a deep respect for competitors like Kohli. While they may give him some grief if he plays the role of the antagonist, they will undoubtedly cheer him on if he scores significant runs. Kohli has historically excelled in Australian conditions, showcasing his adaptability to the bounce and pace. The question for 2024 is whether he still possesses the sharpness needed to tackle Australia’s formidable bowling attack on home soil. I wouldn’t count him out.”
Kohli’s impressive record in Australia includes 1,352 runs at an average of 54.08, featuring six centuries in 13 matches.
“The Border-Gavaskar Trophy Has Been Loaned to the BCCI for a Decade” – Geoff Lawson
Lawson believes that Australia will be highly motivated to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which they have not won since the 2014-15 series. Despite their victory over India in the World Test Championship (WTC) final last year, Australia has struggled in bilateral Test series against India, losing the last four series, including two on home soil.
“Pat Cummins may project a friendly demeanor, but his competitiveness is unwavering and intense. Some Australian players have expressed a desire to rectify past disappointments. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been held by the BCCI for a decade, and it’s time for Australia to reclaim it. Despite holding the WTC title, Australia’s crown feels incomplete without a series win against India. The trophy should ideally be back at Cricket Australia’s headquarters in Jolimont,” Lawson said.
India and Australia currently occupy the top two positions in the 2023-25 WTC standings, maintaining a comfortable lead over the other participating teams.
