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The embrace between Steve Smith and Virat Kohli after the India-Australia semifinal in Dubai encapsulated a poignant moment in cricket history. It signified not only the end of Smith's ODI career but also a deep respect and camaraderie between two of the game's greatest modern batsmen. The image of Smith confiding his retirement decision to Kohli, leaning on his shoulder as Kohli whispered words of encouragement, spoke volumes about their shared journey and the mutual admiration that transcended fierce on-field rivalries. This touching scene, occurring amidst the jubilant Indian celebrations, highlighted the essence of sportsmanship and the enduring bonds forged through years of competition. It served as a reminder that even in the heat of battle, respect and friendship can prevail. Smith's career, especially his battles against India, are highlighted as the defining part of it. He was dreaded by the best ODI team of his generation. The article explores the nuances of their relationship, their contrasting styles, and the impact they've had on each other's careers. This final act provides a fitting conclusion to a significant chapter in cricket, celebrating not just individual brilliance but also the spirit of the game. The fact that this came after India’s victory in the Champions Trophy semifinal adds another layer of emotion. India overcame the Australian hurdle to reach the final. Smith always dominated India as an ODI player. The retiring 35-year-old played more 50-over matches against Kohli (28) than any other opposition player. The article also discusses Smith's performance in the match, noting his innings of 73 and how it reflected his trademark style of play. He tried his best to foil the Indian juggernaut as batter and as captain. While he couldn't reach a century, a feat he had accomplished five times against India previously, his contribution was undeniable. Smith's impact on ODI cricket, especially against India, is undeniable. Smith, who has had such a prolific career against India in the past, was a thorn in the side of many Indian fans. He manipulated the field and set the tempo for his team. The article also highlights Smith's overall record against India, including his impressive run tally and average. No surprises that despite not being considered one of the best ODI players of his generation, Smith was dreaded by the best ODI team of his generation. Smith's most significant knock against India was his maiden ODI century, which helped Australia win the 2015 World Cup semi-final. That victory thwarted India’s progress in the World Cup. The century came at his home ground, SCG. The win came at the back end of a home summer where he'd dominated India with the bat in the Border Gavaskar Trophy. It was the summer that made Steve Smith, transforming him into the world beater with the bat. His first-ever ODI against India was in late 2010 at Visakhapatnam. Back then, Smith didn't bat and bowled expensive overs. Virat Kohli produced one of his early run-chase classics, with his third ODI ton. This set in motion an enduring battle between Kohli and Smith. It occurred months after the Aussie made his Test debut and before the Indian would get his Test cap. Comparisons between the two exist throughout their lengthy Test careers. However, the duo have rarely been spoken of in the same breath when it comes to the 50-over format. Kohli has played nearly double the number of ODIs and has an amazing record. Smith's ODI numbers may not be eye-catching, but his average of 43.28 and strike rate of 86.96 are impressive. They also pale in comparison to his Test numbers. Smith did have moments of brilliance, where he looked like the best ODI player in the world. In the same year against India, Smith scored three ODI tons in a row. They came across two separate tours. His back-to-back 62-ball tons in Sydney in late 2020, which came on the back of his 132-ball 131 in Bengaluru earlier in the year were glimpses into the elite gear that he did possess. While Smith the ODI batter might not be remembered as revered as Smith the Test batter, Indian teams will be relieved to see the back of him. The 2023 World Cup final provides the perfect example, when he walked away without reviewing his contentious LBW call with only four runs to show for his short stay at the crease. Many Indian fans were happy about their chances. India, however, found a way to stop Head on Tuesday in Dubai. It was only apt that he eventually bid adieu in Kohli's arms.
The narrative emphasizes the evolving relationship between Smith and Kohli, from their early encounters to their status as contemporary legends. The article underscores the significance of their rivalry in shaping each other's careers and pushing them to greater heights. It acknowledges Kohli's dominance in the ODI format while highlighting Smith's impactful performances, especially against India. The writer acknowledges that while Smith will never be seen as an all-time great ODI batter, the Indian team was always relieved to see the back of him. He had a habit of scoring crucial runs against them. The article also discusses the broader context of Smith's ODI career, comparing it to his Test career and highlighting the role he played for his country. It acknowledges that his ODI numbers may not be immediately eye-catching, but his average and strike rate are impressive. The analysis focuses on the dynamics of their encounters, their shared experiences, and the mutual respect that underpins their relationship. They have an enduring battle between them. The embrace at the end symbolizes the culmination of their careers and the lasting impact they've had on the game. It's a reminder that even in the midst of intense competition, the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie can prevail. The article effectively captures the nuances of this relationship, exploring their contrasting styles and the mutual admiration that transcends fierce on-field rivalries. The rivalry between Smith and Kohli has certainly added flavor to the India-Australia battles. The author also brings into consideration the performances of Steve Smith against other nations and highlights the fact that he only scored one century in 40 innings against England. Kohli has a better ODI record than Smith. It's probably a simple case of sample size, with Kohli having played nearly double the number of ODIs, while also accumulating a staggering record in the format, one which has few if any rivals. Smith's ODI numbers are a significant achievement when considering the role he has had to play in his team. He had brilliance when he looked like the best ODI player in the world.
The final reflection on Smith's ODI career acknowledges that while he may not be remembered with the same reverence as his Test career, his performances against India will always be a source of anxiety for Indian fans. The article concludes with a sense of closure, highlighting the aptness of Smith's farewell occurring in Kohli's arms, symbolizing the end of an era and the enduring bond between two cricketing legends. Their rivalry and friendship will always be looked back on fondly. The article acknowledges that Smith may not be the greatest ODI player of his generation, but he was always a dangerous opponent for India. This is supported by the article mentioning the 2023 World Cup final in India where Smith got out cheaply and made the Indian fans believe their team had a better chance of winning, despite there being some concerns over Travis Head. It highlights the importance of their rivalry in shaping their careers and pushing them to greater heights. They were serial adversaries. The final act of him bidding farewell in Kohli's arms is a poignant ending to his ODI career and a testament to the respect between the two players. Smith's legacy, both in terms of his individual achievements and his impact on the game, is assured. The article celebrates the spirit of cricket and the enduring bonds that can be forged through competition. The final point that the author makes is that the embrace between the two players is a fitting conclusion to their rivalry. It serves as a reminder that even in the heat of battle, respect and friendship can prevail. It acknowledges Kohli's dominance in the ODI format while highlighting Smith's impactful performances, especially against India. The article effectively captures the nuances of this relationship, exploring their contrasting styles and the mutual admiration that transcends fierce on-field rivalries. The author brings up how Smith's most significant knock against India was his maiden ODI century, which helped Australia win the 2015 World Cup semi-final.