Indian fielder Virat Kohli and Australian batsman Sam Kontas had an altercation on Thursday.
The incident occurred on day one of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
“Have a look where Virat walks. Virat’s walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever.”
– Ricky Ponting #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/zm4rjG4X9A
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024
“I think the emotions got to both of us,” Konstas told Channel 7. “I didn’t quite realise, I was doing my gloves, then a little shoulder charge, but it happens in cricket.”
Commentator and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting added: “Have a look at where Virat walks. Virat’s walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind, whatsoever.”
Former Test umpire Simon Taufel said: “This long shot that’s been provided by the director is really interesting because it shows Virat Kohli actually changing his line to get into the personal space of Sam Konstas.
“Now, there’s a clause within the International Cricket Council’s code of conduct that talks about inappropriate physical contact and that’s the clause that the umpires and the referee will be looking at, at close of play today to see whether or not Virat’s actions fall into that category and my suggestion would be that they’ll probably – looking at that seriously – more than likely do something about that now.”
Konstas hit 60 on international debut. Australia moved to 311 for six at the close of play.