4th Test: Collision Between Kohli and Konstas May Attract ICC Scrutiny
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Melbourne, Dec 26 (NationPress) The shoulder collision incident involving veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas during day one of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) could attract the attention of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
This incident occurred after the 10th over when Kohli, holding the ball, seemingly altered his path to initiate a shoulder collision with Konstas, who was not pleased and exchanged a few words with him. Usman Khawaja, Konstas' opening partner, along with on-field umpire Michael Gough, quickly intervened to diffuse the situation.
The collision left former Australian captain Ricky Ponting suggesting that Kohli might face repercussions. "Virat walked a whole pitch to his right and instigated that confrontation. There's no doubt in my mind. The umpires and the referee will certainly review that incident," he stated.
"Fielders should not be near the batsman at that moment. Every player is aware of where batsmen typically gather. It appeared that Konstas looked up too late and might not have realized someone was in front of him. Kohli may have to answer some questions," he added on Channel Seven.
According to Article 2.12 of the ICC code of conduct, "Any form of inappropriate physical contact is forbidden in cricket. Players will violate this rule if they deliberately, recklessly, or negligently shoulder another player or umpire."
“When evaluating the severity of the breach, several factors will be considered, including whether the contact was intentional, reckless, or avoidable; the force of the contact; any resulting injury; and the individual involved in the contact.”
When asked about the clash with Kohli during a drinks break, Konstas told Fox Sports, "Whatever happens on the field stays on the field, but I enjoy competing — and it’s a fantastic experience for a debut in this packed stadium."
If match referee Andy Pycroft deems it a level two offense, it could result in three to four demerit points. A level one offense may lead to a fine or reprimand.
Simon Taufel, a five-time ICC Umpire of the Year, remarked on Channel Seven that officials would examine the ICC code of conduct before making any decisions.
"The footage shows Kohli intentionally moving into Konstas' personal space. The ICC code of conduct has a clause regarding inappropriate physical contact that will be scrutinized by umpires and the referee at the end of the day," he noted.
"We want to avoid physical contact during matches as it can escalate. Adrenaline is high, and both Konstas and Kohli held their ground. It’s a minor issue that we hope will not continue to escalate."
“In my opinion, they’ll likely overlook this incident. Players should be allowed to express themselves without too much interference. If it escalates, action may be taken later,” he added.
Alyssa Healy, the captain of the Australian women's team and wife of pacer Mitchell Starc, expressed her disappointment over Kohli targeting the young Konstas, who scored an impressive 60.
"It’s more disappointing to see an experienced player, one of the best in the country, visibly targeting the youngest player on the opposing team. It doesn’t set a good example for the team, but if that’s the approach India wants to take, that’s up to them; however, it didn’t phase Konstas at all," she stated on Fox Sports.
