[IND vs AUS] 5 Biggest On-Field Fights Between Indians And Aussies

IND vs AUS: India and Australia, two cricketing powerhouses, have shared a storied rivalry on the cricket field for decades. This fierce competition has not only showcased sublime cricketing talent but has also seen its fair share of intense, on-field altercations. In this article, we delve into the top 5 biggest on-field fights between Indians and Aussies that have left an indelible mark on the cricketing world.

[IND vs AUS] 5 Biggest On-Field Fights Between Indians And Aussies:

1. Andrew Symonds and Harbhajan Singh – The “Monkeygate” Scandal

One of the most infamous incidents in cricketing history occurred during a Test match between India and Australia in 2007. The match featured a heated exchange between Andrew Symonds and Harbhajan Singh. During Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan’s partnership in the first innings, Symonds made allegations that Harbhajan racially abused him, using derogatory language. The term “monkey” was at the center of this controversy.

This incident escalated quickly, and it seemed like the series might be abandoned. However, the Indian team vehemently defended Harbhajan Singh, and after an investigation, he was cleared of the allegations. This incident not only exposed the tensions but also highlighted the resilience and unity of the Indian team in the face of adversity.

2. Umpiring Howlers and the Spirit of Cricket

The 2007 Sydney Test is remembered for a series of controversial decisions that tested the spirit of cricket. Ricky Ponting, the Australian captain, was given a reprieve by the umpire when he had clearly nicked the ball in the first innings. Another significant controversy was Andrew Symonds being denied out when he had nicked the ball. Rahul Dravid also fell victim to a wrong decision, being adjudged caught behind when he hadn’t touched the ball.

This Test also highlighted the Australian team’s willingness to push boundaries, as they refused to walk when they knew they were out. Instances of players like Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke claiming bump catches raised questions about sportsmanship.

3. Steve Smith’s “Brain-fade” Moment

The 2017 Test series between India and Australia had its fair share of drama. In a fiercely competitive match in Bengaluru, Steve Smith, the Australian captain, found himself in the midst of controversy. Smith was seen looking back at the dressing room for guidance on whether to take a Decision Review System (DRS) call.

Indian captain Virat Kohli took exception to this, as it violated the rules of cricket, which strictly prohibit seeking external advice. Kohli’s strong reaction and subsequent comments led to a strained relationship between the two teams throughout the series.

4. Virat Kohli and James Faulkner’s Verbal Spat

The 2016 ODI series in Australia witnessed an intense showdown between Virat Kohli and Australian all-rounder James Faulkner. Known for their aggressive styles of play, both players engaged in a fiery verbal exchange during matches.

During a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Faulkner targeted Kohli with taunts. In response, the 27-year-old Kohli, never one to back down, retorted with, “I have smashed you enough in my life. You are wasting your energy.” This exchange only fueled the rivalry further.

Their confrontation continued in the following game in Canberra, with Kohli once again emerging victorious. He showcased his brilliance with the bat, smashing Faulkner for sixes and boundaries. In both encounters, Kohli’s performance spoke volumes, including scoring centuries, and solidifying his status as one of the finest cricketers in the world.

5. Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina Mocking Shane Watson’s Injury

In a thrilling seven-match One-Day International (ODI) series between India and Australia in 2013, the Indian team managed to secure a 3-2 victory. However, amid the intense competition, two regrettable incidents occurred. Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina, in the heat of the moment, resorted to mocking Shane Watson’s hamstring injury while he was batting.

These actions, seemingly intended to unsettle the opponent through sledging, drew criticism for crossing the boundaries of sportsmanship. Such incidents serve as reminders that maintaining the spirit of cricket should always take precedence, even in high-stakes encounters.

These incidents exemplify the competitive intensity that defines India-Australia cricket matches, making them a spectacle for fans worldwide. While emotions run high, it is crucial to maintain the balance between fierce competition and respect for the game.

The rivalry between India and Australia has given cricket fans some unforgettable moments, both on and off the field. These on-field altercations, while contentious, have added layers to the narrative of this fierce competition. As cricket enthusiasts, we can only hope that future encounters between these two cricketing giants are defined by sportsmanship and outstanding cricketing prowess.