As the much-anticipated clash between India and Australia in the final of the World Test Championship approaches, the spotlight intensifies on the key players who will shape the outcome of the match. One such player is Australia’s Steve Smith, who has garnered immense praise from Indian stalwart batter Virat Kohli.
In a recent interview with Star Sports, Kohli lauded Steve Smith as the best Test player of this generation. He acknowledged Smith’s adaptability, highlighting his remarkable consistency and impact in scoring runs. With an astonishing average of 60 in 85-90 Tests, Smith’s ability to adapt to different conditions and oppositions has made him a formidable force in the Test arena. Kohli emphasized that Smith’s performances over the past decade stand unparalleled, earning him the title of the best in the current generation.
“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 lineup,” Kohli told Star Sports.
Kohli further pointed out Smith’s impressive track record in England, making him a significant threat in the upcoming World Test Championship final. With the ability to dominate against any opposition, Smith has consistently delivered match-winning performances in English conditions. Kohli stressed the importance of dismissing Smith early, acknowledging his potential to single-handedly turn the game in Australia’s favour.
Kohli also acknowledged the impact of Marnus Labuschagne, who forms a formidable partnership with Smith in Australia’s batting order. Labuschagne’s consistent performances have made him a key player for Australia. Together, Smith and Labuschagne have been instrumental in controlling Australia’s batting lineup and building formidable totals. Kohli emphasized the need for India’s bowlers to break through their partnership early to disrupt Australia’s batting rhythm.
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“Smith has always done well against us and he has performed in England. You want to dismiss him as soon as possible because he can have a match-winning impact,” Kohli added.
Having spent time playing in England with Sussex County alongside India’s Cheteshwar Pujara, Steve Smith has had the opportunity to acclimatize to the English conditions before the World Test Championship final. Following the final, Smith’s focus will shift to the Ashes series, where he will aim to continue his success on English soil and contribute significantly to Australia’s campaign.
