Is Virat Kohli in Danger of Being Banned from Sydney Test After Sam Konstas Incident? Here’s What the ICC Rulebook States: Virat Kohli, renowned for his aggressive demeanor on the cricket field, found himself embroiled in controversy yet again during Day 1 of the fourth Test between India and Australia in Melbourne. A heated exchange between Kohli and Australia’s 19-year-old batting sensation Sam Konstas has raised questions about potential repercussions for the Indian star, including a possible suspension from the upcoming Sydney Test.
What Happened?
The incident occurred at the end of the tenth over, with Australia off to a strong start after winning the toss and electing to bat. As Kohli and Konstas crossed paths while exchanging sides, the Indian batter shoulder-bumped Konstas, sparking a brief verbal altercation. The situation escalated, prompting intervention from Australian opener Usman Khawaja and the on-field umpire.
The exchange quickly went viral, drawing criticism from fans and former cricketers. Many deemed Kohli’s aggression unnecessary, with some accusing him of instigating the confrontation.
Ponting and Shastri Weigh In
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who was commentating for Channel 7, did not hold back in his criticism of Kohli’s actions.
“Virat walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever,” Ponting remarked. “Every fieldsman knows where the batsmen congregate. It looked like Konstas didn’t even realize someone was in front of him. The umpires and match referee will undoubtedly review this closely.”
Echoing similar sentiments, former Indian cricketer and coach Ravi Shastri called Kohli’s antics “absolutely unnecessary” during his appearance on SEN.
What Does the ICC Rulebook Say?
The ICC Code of Conduct strictly prohibits inappropriate physical contact. According to the rulebook:
“Any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited in cricket. Without limitation, players will breach this regulation if they deliberately, recklessly and/or negligently walk or run into or shoulder another player or umpire.”
If reviewed, the severity of the incident will determine the penalty. A Level One offence would result in a fine of the match fee. However, a Level Two offence could lead to three or four demerit points. Accumulating four points triggers a one-match suspension, putting Kohli’s participation in the Sydney Test, starting January 3, in jeopardy.
Sam Konstas Speaks Out
Speaking to Channel 7 after his dismissal, Konstas downplayed the altercation:
“I think the emotions got to both of us. I didn’t quite realize—I was fixing my gloves when I felt a tap on my shoulder. But it happens in cricket.”
What’s Next?
The final decision lies with match referee Andy Pycroft, who will review the incident after Day 1’s play concludes. Should Kohli’s actions be deemed a Level Two offence, it could lead to a suspension and significantly impact India’s campaign in the Sydney Test.
With tensions running high, the cricketing world waits to see how this drama unfolds and what precedent it sets for on-field conduct.