"Haven't Seen That Same Virat Kohli Since...": Marnus Labuschagne Recalls His First Memory of India Stalwart
Labuschagne noted that Kohli's intensity during that series stood out to him. "My first memory of Virat was probably from the 2018 series. He was captain at that time, and he was quite intense," Labuschagne told Star Sports.
Ahead of the much-anticipated Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), Australia's dependable batter, Marnus Labuschagne, reflected on his first encounter with Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli. Labuschagne, known for his consistent run-scoring, especially against India, recalled the 2018 series as the first time he saw Kohli don India's Test colors.
In the 2018 series, Kohli was the captain of the Indian team and was known for his fiery on-field intensity. Labuschagne noted that Kohli's intensity during that series stood out to him. "My first memory of Virat was probably from the 2018 series. He was captain at that time, and he was quite intense," Labuschagne told Star Sports. He also mentioned that while Kohli has remained a top performer, he hasn't quite displayed the same level of intensity since that series.
The upcoming BGT series, which will begin on November 22 in Perth, is of significant importance for both teams, as the outcome will influence the qualification for the World Test Championship final. Labuschagne, with 775 runs at an average of 45.58 in 10 matches against India, will be keen to add to his impressive record in the series.
For India, the pressure is on after a historic 3-0 whitewash at home by New Zealand, with India needing four Test wins to secure a spot in the WTC final. Australia, on the other hand, needs to avoid a series loss to keep their hopes alive of defending the title.
