Virat Kohli found himself embroiled in controversy following an on-field altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the first day of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The incident occurred in the 10th over when Konstas, the 19-year-old Australian opener, played aggressively against Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah, leading to tensions among the Indian fielders. As the over concluded, Kohli and Konstas collided shoulders, prompting umpires and Australian batter Usman Khawaja to step in and diffuse the situation.
Also Read: Saim Ayub Joins Virat Kohli in Elite List with Twin Centuries Against South Africa
The altercation quickly went viral on social media, with widespread criticism aimed at Kohli, including calls for a possible one-match suspension. Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee and received a demerit point for the incident.
The Australian media responded harshly, with The West Australia newspaper branding Kohli a “clown” in a headline that included a picture of Kohli with a baby’s feeder in his mouth, intensifying the controversy. Indian fans strongly defended their star batsman, with many expressing outrage over the criticism.
Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, who was commentating during the match, said Kohli had initiated the confrontation, noting his decision to walk across the pitch and instigate the contact. “No doubt in my mind whatsoever,” Ponting remarked.
In contrast, Konstas downplayed the incident during the post-day press conference, claiming that he was merely adjusting his gloves when the contact occurred and suggesting that the clash was accidental.
