BGT 2024-25: Virat Kohli risks ICC sanctions after altercation with young Australian opener Sam Konstas
Xtra Time Web Desk: Virat Kohli, the former Indian captain, may face sanctions following an incident involving 19-year-old Sam Konstas during the first day of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The controversy unfolded as Australia, opting to bat first, made a strong start with Konstas and Usman Khawaja at the crease.
During the break between the 10th and 11th overs, Kohli collided with Konstas, who was adjusting his gloves while changing ends. Replays suggested that Kohli had deliberately altered his trajectory to make contact. Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting, commentating for 7Cricket, stated, “Virat has walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever.”
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Potential ICC penalties
Under MCC laws, deliberate physical contact with another player is categorized as a Level 2 offence. Such conduct falls under chapter 42.1 of the MCC code – Unacceptable Conduct. Penalties for Level 2 offences include:
- Three demerit points: 50%-100% match fee fine or a suspension for one match.
- Four demerit points: Suspension for one Test or two limited-overs matches.
Demerit points remain on a player’s record for 24 months. Kohli, who has had a clean disciplinary record since 2019, risks missing the fifth Test in Sydney starting 3 January if found guilty.
"Have a look where Virat walks. Virat's walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever."
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024
- Ricky Ponting #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/zm4rjG4X9A
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Precedents and appeals
The Indian team management can appeal any sanctions imposed. A similar case occurred in 2018 when South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada was initially handed three demerit points for physical contact with Steve Smith. Rabada’s penalty was overturned on appeal.
As of now, the incident awaits review by the on-field umpires and the ICC match referee. Kohli’s immediate fate hinges on whether the contact is deemed deliberate.
