The incident occurred at the end of the 10th over of Australia’s innings when Kohli and Konstas collided while crossing paths on the field.
The ICC has reportedly penalised Indian cricket star Virat Kohli following an on-field altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the first day of the fourth Test in Melbourne. As per reports, Kohli has been fined 20 per cent of his match fee, and one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record for shoulder-bumping Konstas.
The incident occurred at the end of the 10th over of Australia’s innings when Kohli and Konstas collided while crossing paths on the field. A visibly irritated Konstas confronted Kohli, but the situation was quickly defused by Australian batter Usman Khawaja and the on-field umpire.
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Konstas Downplays the Incident
At the time of the collision, Konstas was batting on 27 and responded in style by hitting two fours and a six in the very next over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking to reporters later, Konstas dismissed the altercation as a part of the game.
“Virat accidentally bumped into me. That’s cricket—it happens, especially with the tension on the field,” he said. In an interview with Channel 7, Konstas added, “The emotions got to both of us. I didn’t realize it initially as I was adjusting my gloves, but a little shoulder bump occurred. It’s part of the game.”
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ICC Code of Conduct Violation
The ICC deemed Kohli’s actions a breach of Article 2.12 of its Code of Conduct, which addresses “Inappropriate physical contact with a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee, or any other person during an International Match.”
Ricky Ponting Criticizes Kohli
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting weighed in on the incident, accusing Kohli of provoking the confrontation. “Look at where Virat walks. He moved an entire pitch width to his right to instigate that confrontation. There’s no doubt in my mind,” Ponting said during the Channel 7 broadcast.
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Konstas’ Memorable Debut
Despite the controversy, Konstas made a stellar start to his Test career, scoring a dynamic 60 off 65 balls, including six fours and two sixes. His performance contributed significantly to Australia’s solid position on the opening day.
Australia in Command
At stumps, Australia had reached 311/6 in 86 overs, with half-centuries from Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, and Konstas. The hosts were firmly in control, building a commanding platform for the remainder of the match.
