The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia, with the series tied at 1-1, saw some drama on Day 1 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Virat Kohli faced criticism after a heated exchange with Australia’s 19-year-old debutant opener, Sam Konstas.  

The incident began when Konstas batted confidently against Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, hitting some impressive shots. Kohli tried to unsettle the young batter with verbal comments and later confronted him during an over break. The situation increased when Kohli bumped into Konstas, leading to intervention from the match officials.  

After the match, Konstas played down the clash, calling it a result of emotions on the field. 

“It was just emotions from both of us. I didn’t even realize; I was fixing my gloves when the shoulder charge happened. But these things happen in cricket,” Konstas said.  

Konstas stayed calm during the game, scoring a solid half-century off 52 balls. He was eventually dismissed LBW by Ravindra Jadeja after making 60 runs from 65 deliveries. Usman Khawaja tried to calm things down by talking to Kohli.  

ICC fined him 20% of his match fee and gave him a demerit point for the incident.