Key Points:
- Virat Kohli fined 20% of match fee and given one demerit point for breaching ICC’s Code of Conduct.
- The incident occurred during the opening day of the 4th Test in Melbourne when Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas collided.
- Konstas, unshaken by the incident, went on to score a memorable half-century on debut.
- Australia finished Day 1 at 311/6, with half-centuries from Labuschagne, Smith, Konstas, and Khawaja.
New Delhi: The cricketing world was abuzz as Virat Kohli, India’s star batter, found himself in the middle of controversy during the opening day of the 4th Test against Australia in Melbourne. The clash unfolded after the 10th over of Australia’s innings when Kohli accidentally bumped shoulders with Australian debutant Sam Konstas while crossing paths.
The collision led to a heated moment as an irritated Konstas confronted Kohli. The exchange was quickly diffused by Usman Khawaja and the on-field umpire, but not before tempers flared.
ICC Takes Swift Action
The International Cricket Council (ICC) wasted no time in penalizing Kohli for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct under Law 2.12, which addresses “Inappropriate physical contact with a player or other personnel during an international match.”
Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee, and one demerit point was added to his disciplinary record. The Indian captain accepted the sanctions proposed by Match Referee Andy Pycroft, negating the need for a formal hearing. The charge was leveled by the on-field umpires Joel Wilson and Michael Gough, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Shawn Craig.
Konstas Shines Amid Controversy
Despite the tense encounter, Sam Konstas showcased remarkable composure on his Test debut. The 20-year-old Australian batter capitalized on the moment, smashing two fours and a six in the following over by Jasprit Bumrah. Konstas went on to score a brilliant 60 off 65 balls, a sparkling innings that featured six boundaries and two maximums.
Speaking about the incident, Konstas downplayed the tension, stating, “Virat Kohli accidentally bumped into me. That’s cricket, and it can happen in high-pressure moments. Emotions were high, but it’s all part of the game.”
Ricky Ponting Weighs In
Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting, analyzing the incident on Channel 7, criticized Kohli’s actions. “Have a look where Virat walks. He’s crossed an entire pitch to his right and clearly instigated the confrontation. No doubt in my mind,” Ponting remarked.
Day 1 Recap: Australia on Top
Australia ended the opening day of the Melbourne Test in a commanding position, scoring 311/6 in 86 overs. Contributions came from Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Sam Konstas, and Usman Khawaja, all of whom registered half-centuries.
The match continues with tensions high and both teams aiming to capitalize on key moments. The incident between Kohli and Konstas is bound to add an extra layer of intensity to an already heated contest.
