Melbourne: Former Indian captain Virat Kohli has been fined 20% of his match fee following a heated altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The incident occurred on December 26, when Kohli collided with Konstas mid-pitch, leading to a tense exchange that required intervention from umpires and players from both sides.
The altercation unfolded during the second session of the day’s play. As Kohli attempted to complete a quick single, he inadvertently collided with the 19-year-old Konstas, who was fielding in close. The accidental bump escalated into a verbal spat, with both players exchanging heated words before being separated by the on-field umpires.
ICC Sanctions Kohli for Conduct Breach
The International Cricket Council (ICC) deemed Kohli’s actions a violation of its Code of Conduct, specifically under Article 2.3, which pertains to conduct contrary to the spirit of the game. Match referee David Boon imposed a 20% fine on Kohli’s match fee and issued him a formal warning. Kohli accepted the sanction without contesting the charge.
