At MCG during IND vs AUS Test Match, Kohli, Konstas involved in heated altercation
During the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, a mid-pitch altercation occurred between India’s ViratKohli and Australia’s 19-year-old debutant Sam Konstas. The incident unfolded after the 10th over when Kohli and Konstas bumped shoulders while moving across the pitch. Both players exchanged heated words until Usman Khawaja and umpire Michael Gough intervened to defuse the situation.
Watch the video here.
Replays revealed that Kohli changed his path to approach Konstas, which led to the collision. Konstas later commented, “I think the emotions got to both of us… a little shoulder charge, but it happens in cricket.” Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting noted that Kohli instigated the confrontation by walking across the pitch.
Former ICC umpire Simon Taufel indicated that Kohli’s actions could be deemed inappropriate physical contact under the ICC’s Code of Conduct. The match referee will review the incident to determine if it warrants any action. Kohli’sbehavior has drawn criticism from various commentators, with some questioning why a seasoned player would confront a debutant. The incident adds another layer of intensity to the already fierce rivalry between India and Australia.