Virat Kohli has been fined 20% of his match fee and received one demerit point following a physical altercation with Australia’s 19-year-old debutant Sam Konstas during the first session of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The incident occurred after the 10th over when the two players collided on the field. Konstas, heading towards the other end, crossed Kohli’s path, leading to a brief exchange of words. The situation escalated until Australian opener Usman Khawaja and umpire Michael Gough intervened to separate the two.

Television replays sparked debates over whether the collision was accidental or intentional. The International Cricket Council (ICC) charged Kohli for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct, accusing him of making physical contact with an opponent. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting placed blame on Kohli for instigating the altercation, adding fuel to the ongoing debate.

The incident has divided fans, with some criticising Kohli’s actions as unnecessary aggression, while others defend him as a fiercely competitive player. The altercation prompted widespread social media reactions, with supporters from both sides sharing their views on Kohli’s behaviour during this fiery exchange.

Jasprit Bumrah once again showcased his skill as India fought back on the first day of the fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne. At Stumps, Australia reached 311/6, with Steve Smith at 68 and Pat Cummins at 8 remaining unbeaten at the crease.

Debutant Sam Konstas, 60, played a brilliant knock, featuring some stunning strokes that powered the home side’s progress. Usman Khawaja scored 57, and Marnus Labuschagne gave an astonishing knock of 72, and Smith’s 68 also contributed fifties on a good batting wicket. Jasprit Bumrah took 3 wickets, giving away 75 runs, and was the standout bowler for India, delivering a spirited performance amid the Australian resistance.