India’s star cricketer Virat Kohli has been fined 20% of his match fee and handed a demerit point following an altercation with Australia’s debutant Sam Konstas during the opening day of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The fiery exchange came during a tense moment in the match, with Kohli visibly frustrated by Konstas’ aggressive batting.
The incident occurred at the end of the 10th over, where Kohli and Konstas collided shoulder-to-shoulder, sparking a heated exchange between the two. Konstas, who had been confidently countering India’s bowlers, remained unfazed by the confrontation, while umpire Michael Gough and Australian batsman Usman Khawaja stepped in to calm the situation.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Bumps Shoulders with Sam Konstas Mid-Pitch During Boxing Day Test
Kohli’s actions were later classified as a Level 2 offence under the ICC’s code of conduct, which addresses inappropriate physical contact between players. Former Indian captain Ravi Shastri criticized Kohli’s behavior, calling it “absolutely unnecessary.” The penalty for Kohli has added further drama to a match already filled with intensity.
Meanwhile, Konstas continued to shine on his debut, scoring an impressive 60 runs in front of a packed crowd of 87,242. His partnership with Khawaja (57) and contributions from Marnus Labuschagne (72) and Steve Smith (68*) helped Australia post 311/6 at stumps. Despite the altercation, Konstas maintained his focus, stating, “Whatever happens on the field stays on the field.”
India’s Jasprit Bumrah was another key figure, taking 3/75 and keeping Australia in check despite their solid batting efforts. The clash between Kohli and Konstas may have stolen headlines, but the contest remains finely poised as the Test series continues.
