Tensions ran high during the fourth Test at the MCG when an altercation between Indian superstar Virat Kohli and Australia’s 19-year-old debutant Sam Konstas captured attention.

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The incident occurred during the morning session and resulted in Kohli being penalized for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct.

Here’s a breakdown of what transpired and Konstas’ response to the situation.

When and how did the altercation occur?

The flashpoint came after the tenth over when Kohli and Konstas inadvertently bumped shoulders while crossing the pitch.

Replays revealed that Konstas, preoccupied with adjusting his gloves, walked straight down the pitch, while Kohli veered towards him while tossing the ball.

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This accidental collision quickly escalated into a heated verbal exchange, which required intervention from Usman Khawaja and umpire Michael Gough to defuse the situation.

Kohli was subsequently fined 20% of his match fee and handed a demerit point for making “inappropriate physical contact,” as per ICC’s Code of Conduct. The Indian batter accepted the sanctions without a formal hearing.

Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas exchanged a heated moment on the MCG. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/QL13nZ9IGI

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 26, 2024

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How did Sam Konstas respond?

Konstas, speaking to reporters post-match, downplayed the incident. “I was just doing my gloves, and I think he accidentally bumped me, but that’s just cricket. It is the tension,” he stated.

“That’s just Cricket”- #SamKonstas clears the air on the Kohli incident! 👀🏏#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 4th Test, Day 2 | FRI, 27th DEC, 5 AM pic.twitter.com/dQGIAy8fm7

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 26, 2024

Konstas played a crucial debut knock, displayed a fearless approach against India’s formidable bowling attack. Before the altercation, he had already grabbed headlines by reverse-scooping Jasprit Bumrah for six and executing audacious strokes against the likes of Mohammed Siraj.

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Konstas finished with an impressive 60 off 65 balls, including six boundaries and two sixes, cementing his place as a player to watch.