The incident unfolded during the morning session after the tenth over
when a shoulder-to-shoulder collision occurred between Virat Kohli
and Constas as they crossed paths on the pitch. This confrontation
sparked tension between the players, prompting Usman Khawaja,
Constas’ opening partner, and umpire Michael Gough to step in and
diffuse the situation.
Kohli faced a Level 1 charge under the ICC Code of Conduct for “inappropriate physical contact,” which applies to interactions with players, officials, or spectators during an international match. Kohli acknowledged his fault, accepting the penalty without requiring a formal hearing.
Replays of the incident showed that Constas, distracted while examining his gloves, turned from the crease and began walking to the other end. Kohli, holding the ball, moved toward Constas from the side, resulting in the collision. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, analyzing the replay on Channel 7, attributed the incident to Kohli’s actions, suggesting he intentionally moved into Constas’ path. On Star Sports, former India coach Ravi Shastri expressed disapproval of Kohli’s behavior, calling it avoidable and unbefitting of his stature in the game. Shastri emphasized that Kohli, as a seasoned player and former captain, should reflect on maintaining composure during high-pressure moments.
Constas, despite the altercation, showcased resilience during the Test match. He initially struggled against the formidable Nathan McSweeney, who had dismissed him multiple times in earlier matches. However, Constas adapted, scoring a commendable 27 runs off 38 balls after a slow start. His innings gained momentum as he displayed innovative shots, including a reverse scoop for six and a straight drive for four. He faced Kohli and Mohammad Siraj with determination, scoring 34 and 20 runs off their deliveries, respectively.
The India-Australia Test rivalry has a rich history of intensity and occasional on-field altercations, with Kohli often at the center of such incidents. Notably, during the 2018-19 series, Kohli had a heated exchange with Australian captain Tim Paine. In 2014, he endured a fiery spell from Mitchell Johnson during his century in Adelaide. These clashes underline the fierce competitiveness that defines matches between the two cricketing powerhouses.
While the recent incident reflects the emotional nature of the sport, it also highlights the need for players to uphold the spirit of cricket. Kohli’s actions, though not unprecedented, serve as a reminder of the fine line between passion and misconduct. With his experience, Kohli is expected to lead by example, fostering healthy competition while avoiding unnecessary controversies.
Kohli faced a Level 1 charge under the ICC Code of Conduct for “inappropriate physical contact,” which applies to interactions with players, officials, or spectators during an international match. Kohli acknowledged his fault, accepting the penalty without requiring a formal hearing.
Replays of the incident showed that Constas, distracted while examining his gloves, turned from the crease and began walking to the other end. Kohli, holding the ball, moved toward Constas from the side, resulting in the collision. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, analyzing the replay on Channel 7, attributed the incident to Kohli’s actions, suggesting he intentionally moved into Constas’ path. On Star Sports, former India coach Ravi Shastri expressed disapproval of Kohli’s behavior, calling it avoidable and unbefitting of his stature in the game. Shastri emphasized that Kohli, as a seasoned player and former captain, should reflect on maintaining composure during high-pressure moments.
Constas, despite the altercation, showcased resilience during the Test match. He initially struggled against the formidable Nathan McSweeney, who had dismissed him multiple times in earlier matches. However, Constas adapted, scoring a commendable 27 runs off 38 balls after a slow start. His innings gained momentum as he displayed innovative shots, including a reverse scoop for six and a straight drive for four. He faced Kohli and Mohammad Siraj with determination, scoring 34 and 20 runs off their deliveries, respectively.
The India-Australia Test rivalry has a rich history of intensity and occasional on-field altercations, with Kohli often at the center of such incidents. Notably, during the 2018-19 series, Kohli had a heated exchange with Australian captain Tim Paine. In 2014, he endured a fiery spell from Mitchell Johnson during his century in Adelaide. These clashes underline the fierce competitiveness that defines matches between the two cricketing powerhouses.
While the recent incident reflects the emotional nature of the sport, it also highlights the need for players to uphold the spirit of cricket. Kohli’s actions, though not unprecedented, serve as a reminder of the fine line between passion and misconduct. With his experience, Kohli is expected to lead by example, fostering healthy competition while avoiding unnecessary controversies.