Sat Dec 28 04:26:44 UTC 2024: ## Kohli Faces Derogatory Abuse from Australian Crowd at MCG
**Melbourne, Australia** – Indian cricket star Virat Kohli was subjected to sustained verbal abuse from sections of the crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) during Day 2 of the fourth Test against Australia. The abuse, including audible slurs like “wanker,” followed a controversial shoulder-barge incident involving Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas on Day 1.
Kohli’s interactions with the crowd escalated throughout the day. He initially responded to the jeers by gesturing for the crowd to increase the volume. Later, after being dismissed for 36 runs, he engaged in a brief standoff with booing fans near the players’ tunnel, appearing visibly displeased before being escorted away by security.
Earlier in the day, Kohli was also involved in an unusual incident when a pitch invader, wearing a “Free Ukraine” shirt, approached him. While the invader initially targeted Rohit Sharma, he ultimately embraced Kohli before being removed from the field.
India ended Day 2 on 164/5 in response to Australia’s first innings total of 474, leaving them with a significant deficit. Kohli’s performance and the crowd’s reaction have dominated discussion surrounding the match. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the two teams, fueled by the earlier on-field altercation.
First Piper 