Last Updated:
Virat Kohli was punished after he shoulder-bumped Australian debutant Sam Konstas on the first day of the fourth Test at the MCG.
India vs Australia: Virat Kohli blows a kiss (AP)
Virat Kohli has been fined 20% of his match fee and received a demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct. The penalty was handed out after Kohli made shoulder contact with Australia’s 19-year-old debutant, Sam Konstas, during the first day of the fourth Test in Melbourne. The incident occurred at the end of the 10th over of Australia’s innings as the two crossed paths on the field.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has criticized the punishment, suggesting that Kohli got off lightly. Vaughan argued that a monetary fine is unlikely to have any real impact on modern cricketers.
“I think Virat is very lucky. Yesterday’s altercation didn’t reflect well on him, especially targeting a 19-year-old just doing what players do at the end of an over. He’s received the same penalty as Mohammed Siraj did at the Adelaide Oval, so I think he got away with it. Fines don’t matter much to players in this era; it’s more about the precedent it sets,” Vaughan remarked.
Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar shared similar views on Channel 7, calling the punishment a mere “slap on the wrist.” Gavaskar emphasized that fines need to be substantial to serve as effective deterrents.
“These players are highly paid professionals. Any fine must be significant enough to make them think twice. However, the match referee seems to have followed ICC guidelines,” Gavaskar explained.
Sam Konstas, who was batting on 27 at the time of the incident, showcased remarkable resilience. In the very next over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, he smashed two fours and a six, eventually scoring an impressive 60 in his debut innings.
Steve Smith further bolstered Australia’s performance with a sublime century, guiding the hosts to a commanding total of 474 in their first innings. In response, India struggled, finishing the second day at 164/5, with their hopes of a comeback hinging on the remaining batters.
The Boxing Day Test continues to deliver riveting action, both on and off the field.
- Location :
Melbourne, Australia