Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan has openly criticized the Australian media for its demeaning portrayal Virat Kohli. Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan expressed his disapproval of the 'Clown Kohli' title, which followed a heated incident between Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Pathan did not mince words labeling the Australian media's approach as hypocritical. “First thing, the Australian media is crossing the lines of double standards,” he said firmly. “First they make you a king and then they show aggression by calling you a joker”.
Using popularity for profit?
ex INDIA The all-rounder also questioned the media's intention behind such stories. He accused them of exploiting Kohli's global popularity for commercial gain. “You are using the cricketer's popularity to make money. That way the heads and tails are yours, which is not acceptable to any of us ex-cricketers, especially Indians,” Pathan said.
That sentiment resonates strongly with Indian fans, who have taken to social media to call out what they see as a targeted campaign against their stars.
Pathan did not stop at pointing out the current discrepancies. He brought up past cases of Australian questionable player behavior that was underestimated or overlooked. “What Virat Kohli has done is wrong, no doubt, but the ICC decides the punishment,” he clarified. “The Australian media is making a big fuss about it, but forget what their players have done in the past, who have spat on Ramnaresh Sarwan and insulted his family.”
Support from Sunil Gavaskar
Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar also joined the discussion, supporting Pathan's sentiments. Gavaskar took a swipe at the Australian media, accusing them of playing “12th man” for their team. He highlighted their selective criticism, noting how they conveniently ignore their own players' bad behavior while vilifying their opponents.
The controversy began on the first day of the fourth Test, when Kohli clashed with Konstas during the 10th over. The ensuing verbal exchange led to the ICC imposing a fine of 20% of Kohli's match fee along with a demerit point. While Kohli accepted the penalty, the exaggerated reaction of the Australian media, including the headline “Kohli the Clown”, has caused outrage.
Indian cricket enthusiasts have been vocal in their support for Kohli. Many see the Australian media's portrayal as a calculated ploy to deflect attention from their team's shortcomings. Social media has been abuzz with posts criticizing the “double standards” highlighted by Pathan and Gavaskar.
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