Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has sparked controversy during the ongoing 4th Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) after an on-field altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas. Kohli’s shoulder-push incident on Thursday, aimed at unsettling the young batter, escalated into a heated exchange, drawing sharp criticism from ex-cricketers like Ricky Ponting and Michael Vaughan. Both have called for International Cricket Council (ICC) action against Kohli.
Ponting and Vaughan Demand Sanctions
Ponting, speaking on Channel Seven, emphasized the deliberate nature of Kohli’s action, stating, “Virat walked across the pitch to instigate the confrontation. Fielders know where batsmen gather, and this was a clear breach of protocol.” He defended Konstas, noting the batter’s late awareness of Kohli’s presence.
Vaughan echoed Ponting’s concerns, asserting that ICC match referee Andy Pycroft is likely to scrutinize the incident. “Such behavior warrants serious examination under the ICC code,” Vaughan said, adding that consequences could range from fines to a match suspension depending on the offense level.
What the ICC Rulebook States
The incident falls under Law 2.12, which prohibits inappropriate physical contact, including reckless or deliberate actions such as shoulder-pushing a player.
Key considerations under the rule include:
1.Intent: Whether the contact was deliberate, reckless, or avoidable.
2.Force: The level of physical impact involved.
3.Injury: Any resulting harm caused by the contact.
4.Context: Circumstances surrounding the breach.
A Level 1 offense may result in a fine, while a Level 2 offense could lead to 3-4 demerit points and a potential one-match ban if Kohli accrues four or more demerit points.
ICC Match Referee’s Role
The final decision rests with match referee Andy Pycroft, who will assess the severity of the incident. If deemed a Level 2 offense, Kohli could face suspension, while a Level 1 ruling may result in a financial penalty.
This controversy adds to the pressure on Kohli, who is already under scrutiny for his performance in the ongoing series. Fans and experts await Pycroft’s verdict, which could significantly impact the final Test and Kohli’s participation in upcoming matches.
