Virat Kohli Faces Criticism, Fines After On-Field Incident with Australian Debutant
Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has come under fire from Australian media following an altercation with 19-year-old Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the first session of the Melbourne Test at the MCG.
The West Australian newspaper criticized Kohli with headlines branding him a “clown” and “crybaby,” referring to the incident where Kohli shoulder-bumped Konstas, sparking a heated exchange. Australian opener Usman Khawaja was seen intervening to defuse the situation.
Responding to the controversy, BCCI President Roger Binny stated, “I did not see the incident, but these things happen on the cricket ground. It’s important to accept and move on to ensure the game continues.”
The International Cricket Council (ICC) also took action, penalizing Kohli under Article 2.12 of its Code of Conduct, which prohibits inappropriate physical contact during matches. Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee and given one demerit point.
The incident occurred during the Boxing Day Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, further intensifying discussions about sportsmanship on the field.
