Mitchell Johnson, one of Australia’s fiercest fast bowlers, has been vocal about his admiration for Virat Kohli’s combative spirit, which he believes revolutionized Indian cricket. Johnson, who has had his fair share of heated battles with the Indian captain, recalls how Kohli stood out for his aggression—a quality that was rare among Indian cricketers in the past. According to Johnson, this aggressive attitude was a game-changer, not just for Kohli, but for Indian cricket as a whole.
Johnson’s assessment of Kohli’s early days in international cricket highlights the intensity Kohli brought to the game. He remembers hearing about Kohli’s potential before actually seeing him play, with comparisons to legendary figures like Sachin Tendulkar floating around. Although these comparisons were made with caution—knowing full well that Tendulkar’s legacy was unmatched—the way Kohli embraced the intensity of international cricket made him a standout figure. Johnson particularly noted how Kohli was always “up for the fight,” a mentality that became a hallmark of his playing style. For Johnson, it was this aggressive approach that differentiated Kohli from other players, especially from India, where players were traditionally seen as less combative.
Kohli’s aggressive mindset wasn’t just on the field but extended to how he led his team. Johnson observes that Kohli’s approach to training was equally intense. He pushed his teammates hard, demanding they step up, especially during fielding drills, which were an area where Kohli himself excelled. Johnson believes that this mindset transformed the Indian team, fostering a culture of aggression and confidence. This shift in attitude was evident during their 2014–15 series in Australia, a series where Johnson witnessed firsthand how Indian cricketers, especially Kohli, no longer feared the opposition. Even though Australia won the series 2-0, this was the last time they triumphed in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The aggressive cricket Kohli played became infectious for his teammates. He transformed the Indian team from one that had been traditionally seen as more reserved into a squad that wasn’t afraid to challenge anyone, anywhere. Johnson acknowledges that this transformation didn’t happen overnight but was a gradual process that evolved as Kohli established himself as one of the game’s top players. The Australian fast bowler also credits Kohli for setting a tone for future Indian cricketers, teaching them how to play tough, competitive cricket, without backing down from challenges.
Interestingly, Johnson’s personal rivalry with Kohli adds a compelling layer to his observations. The two shared numerous on-field exchanges, with Johnson often trying to get under Kohli’s skin in an attempt to disrupt his focus. These confrontations were intense, but Johnson appreciated the way Kohli responded. He recalls moments of frustration when Kohli hit him for boundaries but also acknowledges that Kohli’s resilience made their battles enjoyable. Johnson cites a particularly notable encounter during the 2014 Boxing Day Test, when he attempted to run Kohli out with a throw that inadvertently hit him. This sparked a heated exchange, with Kohli publicly stating his lack of respect for Johnson’s playing style. Yet, this only fueled Kohli’s determination. Johnson admits that in that Test, Kohli responded by scoring a magnificent 169 runs, further proving his point that Kohli’s aggression often works in his favor, both as a player and as a leader.
For Johnson, getting Kohli out early was always a priority, knowing that once Kohli settled in, he could change the course of a match with his aggressive batting. He remembers how Kohli would often make the bowlers pay if they didn’t get him out within the first few balls. This understanding of Kohli’s game made Johnson respect him even more. Even though their rivalry was intense, Johnson concedes that Kohli’s approach to cricket has raised the standard for Indian players and has made him one of the most formidable players in world cricket.
As Kohli continues his career, now into his 30s, Johnson sees the player’s impact not just on his team but on the broader cricketing world. Kohli’s aggressive style has left an indelible mark on how modern cricket is played, and Johnson believes that this attitude is one of the reasons why India has become such a dominant force in international cricket. This shift in mentality, from one of passive play to an aggressive, confrontational style, has set the tone for future generations of Indian cricketers.
In conclusion, Mitchell Johnson’s reflection on Virat Kohli’s rise as one of the game’s most aggressive and successful players highlights just how much Kohli has reshaped Indian cricket. While the rivalry between the two players was intense, it also fostered a deep respect from Johnson for Kohli’s resilience and determination. Kohli’s approach to cricket, his leadership, and his aggressive playing style have not only made him a formidable opponent but have also helped raise the competitive bar for Indian cricket, inspiring a new generation to play with the same passion and aggression.