Tensions ran high on Day 1 of IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test between India and Australia in Melbourne, as a heated moment unfolded involving former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Australian batter Sam Konstas.
The confrontation began when Kohli was seen sledging Konstas and escalated further after an apparent shoulder bump between overs. To help calm the situation, umpire and Australian opener Usman Khawaja stepped in.
Watch viral video of Virat Kohli sledging Sam Konstas on day 1 of IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test
IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test saw intense competition as both India and Australia refused to yield an inch with IND vs AUS Border Gavaskar Test series on the line. Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli, unfazed after a fiery exchange with 19-year-old Sam Konstas, continued to bring the heat.
Following Konstas' dismissal, Marnus Labuschagne joined Usman Khawaja at the crease, and former India skipper Kohli was heard instructing his teammates, "Has ke baat nahi karna inse" (Don't talk nicely with them), showing intent to keep the pressure on.
Kohli's actions could potentially result in a penalty if deemed a violation of the ICC Code of Conduct.
Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne put up a resilient stand
Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne held firm against the Indian bowling attack, frustrating the visitors on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test. Khawaja led the charge with a half-century, bringing up his 27th Test ton.
Jasprit Bumrah struggled, while Ravindra Jadeja remained the only Indian bowler to claim a wicket. India continues to search for the crucial second breakthrough. In a surprising selection call, skipper Rohit Sharma dropped Shubman Gill from the playing XI, opting instead for spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar.