Melbourne, Dec. 26 – Virat Kohli found himself in the spotlight on Thursday after a tense exchange with 19-year-old Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The incident unfolded as Konstas dominated India’s bowlers, showing poise under pressure despite the clash.
The shoulder bump occurred as Konstas walked to confer with Usman Khawaja at the end of the 10th over. Kohli, heading in the opposite direction, collided with the young batsman, leading to a brief verbal exchange. Umpire Michael Gough and Khawaja stepped in to calm both players.
Ricky Ponting, commentating for Seven Network, did not hold back in his criticism of Kohli. “The batsman owns the wicket, especially between overs. Kohli may have some explaining to do,” said the former Australian captain.
Michael Vaughan, speaking to Fox Cricket, also questioned Kohli’s actions. “It’s surprising to see someone of Kohli’s experience getting provoked by a teenager. Virat clearly initiated the contact,” Vaughan remarked.
Konstas, however, appeared unaffected by the encounter. On the very next ball, he struck Jasprit Bumrah for a boundary and followed it up with a commanding six over the bowler’s head, taking 18 runs from the over.
In a mid-match interview, Konstas downplayed the clash. “What happens on the field stays there. Competing in front of a packed crowd on debut—there’s nothing better,” he said.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) may review the incident. Its rules prohibit inappropriate physical contact, and severe infractions can lead to match suspensions.
Kohli, struggling for consistency in the series after a century in Perth, has managed only 21 runs in three innings since. His mood likely soured further when Konstas survived an edge off Bumrah earlier in the morning, the ball falling just short in the slips.
To add to India’s woes, Konstas overcame initial missteps, including two failed attempts to scoop Bumrah, before finding his rhythm with consecutive boundaries. He punished both Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj with aggressive strokes, keeping India under pressure.
Konstas’ impressive debut innings concluded at 60 off 65 balls, falling lbw to Ravindra Jadeja just before lunch. Despite the early dismissal, his commanding presence highlighted the challenge India faces against Australia in this crucial match
