Virat Kohli found himself at the center of controversy after an on-field altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas on the first day of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The incident took place during the 10th over when 19-year-old Australian opener Konstas on debut played aggressively against Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah, causing concern among the Indian fielders.
As the over came to an end, Kohli and Konstas collided shoulder to shoulder. Umpires and Australian batsman Usman Khawaja intervened to end the situation.
The incident quickly went viral on social media, leading to calls for a possible one-match suspension for Kohli. He was fined 20 per cent of his match fee and given a demerit point after an altercation with Australia’s Sam Konstas.
The Australian media reacted strongly with a headline. Western Australia The newspaper described Kohli as a “clown” and included a picture of him with a baby feeder in his mouth, adding to the controversy. Indian fans were furious at this criticism.
Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, who was on commentary during the match, said he had no doubt that Kohli initiated the contact. “Look where Virat runs. Virat drives a full pitch to his right and sparks that collision. There’s no doubt in my mind,” Ponting said.
In contrast, Konstas played down the collision in the press conference later in the day, explaining that he was adjusting his gloves when Kohli made contact. He suggested that the collision was accidental and that Kohli hit him by mistake.