Australian women’s cricket star Alyssa Healy has opened up about one of the most talked-about rivalries in modern cricket Mitchell Starc vs Virat Kohli. The Aussie wicketkeeper, who is also Starc’s wife, gave fans a rare glimpse into what it was like watching the two face off on the big stage.
With Virat Kohli recently retiring from Test cricket, Healy said that many Australian bowlers might actually feel a bit more relaxed now. Facing Kohli was never easy, and his presence added extra tension and thrill to every match.
Starc vs Kohli: A Battle Full of Fire and Fun
Healy said that although Starc had many intense moments with Kohli, he actually enjoyed bowling to him. It wasn’t just a fight between bat and ball it was like a game of chess. Kohli was known for his aggressive approach, sharp eyes, fast running, and of course, his iconic cover drives. And every time he played against Australia, especially in Tests, he brought all of that with him.
Kohli scored over 2000 Test runs and 9 centuries against Australia proof of how tough he was. He didn’t just play well in India. He performed in tough conditions in Australia, too. That’s what made him special.
Kohli’s Style Came With Risks, But That’s What Made Him Great
Alyssa also explained how Kohli’s love for driving the ball made him look like he had a weakness outside off-stump. Some thought it was a flaw. But Healy disagreed. She said that Kohli always played his shots, and that’s what made him exciting to watch.
“Mitch actually liked bowling to him because he knew Virat would chase balls outside off-stump,” Healy said on a podcast. “People call it a technical issue, but I think it was just part of his style. He always wanted to score runs.”
She also praised Kohli’s bravery. Playing aggressive shots in Test cricket can be risky, but it also puts pressure on the bowler. When Kohli was calm and focused, he was one of the hardest players to dismiss. His balance, still head, and control made him dangerous, and the flair he had while playing on both sides of the wicket was something special.
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Fun Moment: Alyssa Healy Fails Virat Kohli Quiz
Adam Peacock: Which Australian cricketer has dismissed Virat Kohli the most times in Test cricket?
Healy: I feel like it’s Mitch (Mitchell Starc).
Adam Peacock: And your bias would tell you that you’re wrong.
Healy: Umm, Are they still playing?
Adam Peacock: Yes.
Healy: Josh Hazlewood
Adam Peacock: No
Healy: Ok, I give up.
Adam Peacock: Nathan Lyon (7 dismissals). Next question. Out of Scott Boland, Cummins, Hazlewood, and Starc, who has dismissed Kohli the most?
Healy: I feel like it’s Josh.
Adam Peacock: I feel like you’re out of wind. It’s Mitch.
Healy: Oh, Mitch (6 times), I am a stinker.
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