Virat Kohli's Australian tour has seen admiration turn to enmity within weeks. When to Indian The cricket icon landed in Perth last month, the local media celebrated his arrival with fervor. A leading publication even featured a Hindi title, calling him “The King” to woo the massive Indian fan base. However, after an on-field spat with Australian debutant Sam Konstas, Kohli now finds himself vilified by the same press.
Kohli vs Sam Konstas and the MCG
The debate unfolded during the fourth Test of the Frontier-Gavaskar Trophy. On day one, at the bottom of the 10th, Kohli and Konstas crossed paths – literally. As Konstas adjusted his gloves and moved to the opposite crease, Kohli's trajectory led to a collision that looked deliberate. Tensions flared immediately. Words flew between the seasoned Indian batsman and the young Australian, forcing the umpire to step in and defuse the situation.
Match officials, including on-field umpires Joel Wilson and Michael Gough, found Kohli's behavior inappropriate. Match referee Andy Pycroft proposed sanctions, which Kohli accepted without contest. “Virat Kohli has been fined 20 percent of his match fee and given one demerit point,” the ICC's official statement said. By accepting the penalty, Kohli avoided a formal hearing and further consequences.
Ricky Ponting blasts ICC: Kohli's Boxing Day ban too lenient
WHEREAS Australian cricket circles condemned Kohli, Indian fans rallied to his defence. Social media erupted with divided opinions, with some applauding his aggression as a competitive spirit and others questioning his judgement. The incident further fueled the already intense rivalry between the two cricket giants.
Australian newspaper The Western Australian did not hold back in her criticism. Using the headline “Kohli the Clown”, the article heavily criticized his actions. Slug down turned the knife further: “Indian batsman stumped for pathetic knock on Test debut of teenage dreams.” In particular, the term “sook”, popular in Tasmania, equates to calling someone a coward or a crybaby.
Australian cricket veterans quickly stepped in, some calling for Kohli's suspension from the ICC. However, the governing body opted for leniency. Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee and given a demerit point under Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
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