The opening day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) between Australia and India Witnessed a controversial and contentious brawl in the middle of the field between Virat Kohli and Australian newcomer Sam Konstas.
Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas' clash sparks controversy on the first day of the Boxing Day Test
The incident occurred in the first session of play as Konstas, who was making his international debut, faced the strength of the Indian bowling attack, especially pacers like Jasprit Bumrah. His confident approach and audacious delivery were causing frustration among the Indian bowlers.
However, things escalated when Kohli, known for his fiery personality on the field, deliberately walked into Konstas' path at the end of the 10th minute, leading to a heated exchange of words between the players. Constas, who seemed unfazed by the encounter, responded confidently, thus exacerbating the situation. Veteran Australian mix Othman Al Khawaja He had to intervene to defuse the tension while the referee was on the field Michael Gove I intervened to prevent the situation from getting out of control.
also Watch: Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas exchange heated words after shoulder collision on day one of Melbourne Test
Alyssa Hailey's aggressive response
the International Cricket Council (ICC) The incident is expected to be examined, particularly in light of the involvement of two key players in a high-stakes Test match. Speaking to Fox Cricket, Alyssa Haleycaptain of the Australian women's cricket team, expressed his disappointment over Kohli's behaviour, stating that a player of his stature should have maintained a more professional behaviour.
“It's a tough one. Perhaps what's more disappointing than anything is that your experienced player, one of your best players, goes straight for the opposition's youngest player. It doesn't really set the greater tone for your side. But if that's the approach the team wants… The Indian followed him, so be it, but that did not bother him at all.” Healy said.
Ricky Ponting points fingers at Kohli's actions
Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting He also criticized Kohli, pointing out that the Indian star deliberately incited the confrontation. While commentating live on 7Cricket, Ponting analyzed the footage and accused Kohli of deliberately provoking Konstas.
“Take a look at where Virat is walking. Virat walked full court to his right and instigated that encounter. There's no doubt in my mind at all. It looked to me like Konstas looked up too late, and didn't even know someone was in front of him. He might have This man on screen (Kohli) has some questions to answer.
Konstas marks his debut with an unforgettable fifty
Despite the tense moment, Konstas remained calm and showed remarkable poise during his first innings. He went on to score a valiant half-century, hitting six boundaries and two sixes before being dismissed Ravindra Jadeja At the end of the session. His courageous style against Bumrah stood out, especially under pressure and opposition. Despite the setback of losing Constance, Usman Khawaja continued to hold out at the other end, hitting 57, while Marnus Labuschagne relied on his innings to remain unbeaten on 72. Over drinks, Australia sat comfortably at 237/2Which indicates their dominance of the session.