Delhi: The heat was seen on the very first day of the fourth test match between India and Australia. In this match being played at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), an incident between Virat Kohli and Australia’s 19-year-old debutant Sam Constas heated up the atmosphere.
Kohli engaged in a scuffle on the field, in response the 19 year old player showed greatness
What is the matter?
Australia won the toss and chose to bat and by lunch the score reached 112/1. Constas performed brilliantly and scored 60 runs in 65 balls. But, the real drama in the match was seen after the 10th over. When Kohli and Constance were passing by each other, there was a shoulder-to-shoulder collision between the two.
After this confrontation there was an altercation between the two players. Kohli tried to go back towards Constance in anger, but experienced player Usman Khawaja intervened and calmed the matter. Khawaja tried to convince Constance and calmed him down by placing a friendly hand on Kohli’s shoulder.
What punishment can Kohli face?
Match referee Andy Pycroft will investigate the matter and decide whether either Kohli or Constance violated the ICC Code of Conduct.
According to ICC rules, “Inappropriate physical contact of any kind is prohibited in cricket.” Players are expected to avoid intentionally or accidentally colliding with another player or the umpire.
If the incident falls under a Level 2 violation, Kohli or Constance could receive 3-4 demerit points. Getting 4 demerit points means that the player can be out of the New Year Test to be held in Sydney.
However, if it is considered a Level 1 violation, the punishment will be lighter. In this, only match fee fine can be imposed and no major action will be taken.
