Virat Kohli fined by ICC for shouldering Sam Konstas

India's Virat Kohli has been fined 20% of his match fee and received a demerit point after an altercation with Australia’s Sam Konstas during the fiery opening day of the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The incident occurred after Konstas, on debut, was in the midst of a bold innings that frustrated the Indian fielding side.

Australia, after winning the toss and electing to bat, reached 311/6 at stumps on Thursday. Konstas, who made an impressive 60, was among four Australians to score half-centuries, alongside Usman Khawaja (57), Marnus Labuschagne (72), and Steve Smith (68*). The day’s play took place in front of a packed crowd of 87,242 spectators.

The incident between Kohli and Konstas took place at the end of the 10th over. As Kohli walked past the debutant, the two players collided shoulder to shoulder. Konstas' aggressive stroke play had already been causing frustration for the Indian side, and the shoulder bump was followed by a heated exchange of words.

Kohli, visibly angry, appeared to move towards Konstas before being intervened by umpire Michael Gough and Australia’s Khawaja, who quickly stepped in to diffuse the situation.

Commentators, including former India captain Ravi Shastri, called Kohli's actions “absolutely unnecessary” in the aftermath. The incident has been classified as a Level 2 offence, as per the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) code of conduct, which covers inappropriate or deliberate physical contact between players.

Konstas, meanwhile, remained focused on his performance and brushed off the confrontation. “Whatever happens on the field stays on the field,” said the 19-year-old. “My job is to compete, and it becomes even better when there's a packed stadium.”

Earlier in the match, Konstas had a nervy start, playing and missing several times in the opening over by Jasprit Bumrah. However, the teenager quickly regained his composure, showcasing audacious shots, including reverse scoops, which helped him build a solid partnership with Khawaja. His exciting 65-ball knock came to an end when he was dismissed LBW by Ravindra Jadeja, with Australia reaching 112/1 at lunch.

Kohli’s actions, however, were not the only talking point. Jasprit Bumrah was once again a key figure with the ball, claiming 3/75 as he continued his dominant performance against Australia’s batters in the series.