In a match filled with action and drama, an unexpected incident involving Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas has stirred the cricketing world.
During the 10th over of Australia’s innings in Melbourne, a push from Kohli toward Konstas sparked controversy.
The moment quickly caught the attention of fans and experts alike, and it didn’t take long for discussions to flood in.
However, Kohli’s actions didn’t go unnoticed, and the Indian star had to face the consequences.
While commentators, including Ricky Ponting, were quick to express their concerns about Kohli’s behavior, it wasn’t long before the former captain faced a penalty.
After the day’s play in Melbourne, the match referee decided to fine Kohli 20% of his match fee and also awarded him one demerit point.
Kohli admitted his mistake when speaking to the match referee, Andy Pycroft, which meant no formal hearing was needed.
The fine and demerit point came as a result of Kohli violating the ICC’s Code of Conduct, specifically the section dealing with physical contact between players.
The incident occurred when both teams were switching ends in the 10th over, and Kohli made physical contact with Konstas.
The young Australian opener was seen exchanging words with Kohli, but the conversation was cut short as Usman Khawaja and umpire Michael Gough stepped in to prevent things from escalating.
While Kohli`s moment on the field was the subject of much discussion, the Australian debutant made headlines for his own achievements.
Sam Konstas, just 19 years and 85 days old, not only debuted in the Boxing Day Test but also broke a 71-year-old record. He became the second youngest Australian cricketer to debut in a Test match, and in doing so, he also became the youngest Aussie player since 1953 to score a fifty on his debut.
The record was once held by Ian Craig, who, at 17 years and 239 days, set the benchmark by scoring a half-century in his first Test match.
On the field, Konstas continued to impress. He reached 60 runs before being dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja. As of the latest update, Australia was 254 for 5, with four of their top-order batsmen reaching fifty.
Konstas’s 60, Usman Khawaja’s 57, and Marnus Labuschagne’s 72 were all key contributions. Steve Smith was still batting on 50 runs.
While Kohli’s moment of controversy captured attention, it was Sam Konstas who stole the spotlight with his record-breaking debut, proving he has a bright future ahead in Australian cricket.