Fri Dec 27 13:25:26 UTC 2024: ## Kohli Faces Backlash After On-Field Altercation in Melbourne

**Melbourne, Australia** – Former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli is facing intense criticism following a heated exchange with Australian debutant Sam Konstas during a recent Test match in Melbourne. The incident sparked outrage, particularly after *The West Australian* newspaper published a headline calling Kohli a “Clown” and described his actions as a “pathetic bump” in Konstas’ debut.

The Australian media’s reaction has been widely condemned by former Indian cricket coach Ravi Shastri, who attributed the aggressive response to Australia’s recent lack of success at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Shastri stated on Star Sports, “I am not surprised by this at all, simply because Australia hasn’t won here in 14–15 years…When they get an opportunity to go berserk, they will go berserk.” He highlighted the unified support the Australian team receives from both the media and public.

Kohli’s actions did not go unpunished. The International Cricket Council (ICC) fined him 20 percent of his match fee and issued a demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the Code of Conduct. Kohli accepted the sanctions, avoiding a formal hearing. The incident has reignited debate about the intensity of on-field rivalries and the role of media in fueling such controversies.

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