The opening day of the fourth Test turned intense when Virat Kohli clashed with Australia's young debutant Sam Konstas. A heated moment saw the two brushing shoulders, followed by sharp glances and a brief exchange of words. The ICC acted swiftly, penalizing Kohli with a 20% match fee deduction, sources revealed.
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting held no punches, laying full blame on Kohli during his commentary for Seven Cricket. "Virat deliberately walked across the pitch and sparked that confrontation. There’s no doubt about it," he remarked.
Adding to the criticism, Michael Vaughan, former England skipper, questioned Kohli’s reaction. "A seasoned player like him shouldn’t be rattled by a 19-year-old debutant," he stated.
Kerry O’Keefe, another Australian veteran, took a harsher tone, calling Kohli’s behavior arrogant. "Kohli thrives on arrogance, but this time, he saw it in someone else and couldn’t handle it," he said.
The clash has ignited a debate, with opinions divided on whether Kohli crossed the line or was simply being his fiery self on the field.