Virat-Kohli's

Virat Kohli Penalized for Clash with 19-Year-Old Sam Konstas

 

The first day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) saw tempers flare as India’s Virat Kohli clashed with Australia’s 19-year-old debutant, Sam Konstas. A shoulder bump and verbal exchange between the two players became the focal point of the day, overshadowing a tightly contested cricket match.

 

The Incident: On-Field Confrontation

 

The scuffle took place in the 10th over when Konstas approached his companion Usman Khawaja after making a single run. Kohli sprinted for the ball and reached Konstas who was retrieving the ball and also did not change his path, leading Kohli to “Shouldering” Kontas. Verbally provoked follow-up conversation was made, in which Kohli swivelled to face Konstas.

Khawaja Usman Khawaja came over and spoke to Kohli while there was also an exchange of words with the on-field umpires. The incident was managed to calm down swiftly, however, the loudest did not miss it, fans and specialists.

 

ICC Action: Kohli Penalized

 

Kohli was docked 20% of his match fee, besides being given one demerit point under the ICC Code of Conduct. Match referee, Andy Pycroft thought about the episode as Level 1 misconduct which also involves improper touching.

The match penalty ensured Kohli remained available for selection in the season’s final Test at Sydney. But the demerit point means that Kohli is now one step closer to a suspension given that reaching four points in 24 months would lead to suspension for one match.

 

Konstas Impresses Under Pressure

 

Despite the altercation, Konstas was able to stay calm though and made a promising start. Teenaged aggression was on display as the 19-year-old scored 60 off 65 balls against India’s pace attack. His reverse ramp shot off Jasprit Bumrah into the stands of one and a couple of boundaries subdued the Indian bowlers.

Ravindra Jadeja eventually dismissed Kontas, but the youngster’s contribution bolstered Australia’s innings. Post-match, Konstas played down the incident as expressed his admiration for Kohli. He stated, “"Whatever (happens) on the field stays on the field. I love competing.”

 

Mixed Reactions from Experts

 

Many cricketing legends are divided on the matter. Ricky Ponting called out Kohli for deliberately walking over the pitch to provoke the confrontation. Kohli's actions also disappointed Michael Vaughan, who believes the Indian captain may later come to regret his response.

Ricky Ponting remarked, “That man (Kohli) might have a few questions to answer,” suggesting Kohli was the instigator. Michael Vaughan added, “Virat Kohli is such an experienced pro, being wound up by a 19-year-old.”

 

Border-Gavaskar Series Intensifies

 

Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne picked up the momentum in the fight back, helping Australia finish on 311 for 6 at the end of day one. For India, Jasprit Bumrah picked up three wickets, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar and Akash Deep scalped one wicket apiece.

The on-field clash has added deja vu to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy where the series and the rest of the matches remain tied at 1-1, making it the toast for a thrilling nail-biting affair.

The incident shows to cricket buffs yet again how sportsmanship and sports competition walk a fine line, and the importance of discipline while the battle rages.