Virat Kohli Fined After Altercation with Sam Konstas
Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has been fined 20% of his match fee. This follows a fight with Australian teen Sam Konstas during the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. The incident happened on the first day of the Test match. Tensions flared between the two players.
Heated Exchange Between Kohli and Konstas
The altercation began with a verbal exchange between Kohli and Konstas. It was Konstas’ debut as an opener for Australia. The 19-year-old’s aggressive batting showed his talent. It included a reverse scoop six off Jasprit Bumrah. It seemed to frustrate Kohli.
During an over change, Kohli deliberately brushed against Konstas’ shoulder, sparking further tension. Konstas replied. The umpires intervened to defuse the situation.
An exchange between Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas.
– THE BOXING DAY TEST IS HERE.pic.twitter.com/x8O4XCN1Sj
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 26, 2024
Why Kohli Escaped with a Minor Fine
The ICC deducted 20% of Kohli’s match fee. But, it did not ban him for the next Test at the SCG. Many fans and analysts expected a stricter penalty, given the nature of the incident.
A key factor in the leniency was Konstas’ post-match statement. He called the incident a “heat of the moment” exchange. He did not blame Kohli alone. The match referee noted Konstas’ role in the argument. He concluded that neither player was entirely at fault.
Sam Konstas Shines on Debut
Despite the controversy, Sam Konstas shone in his first Test. The teenager scored a composed 50, confidently taking on India’s world-class bowling attack. His fearless strokeplay earned praise. A reverse scoop for six helped. It solidified his reputation as a rising star in Australian cricket.
