IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli gets Punished after Sam Konstas Row in Melbourne

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India star Virat Kohli has learned his punishment after his on-field spat with Australia batter Sam Konstas on Thursday (December 26).

Kohli was involved in shouldering and spat with Konstas during the first day's play in Melbourne.

The India batter instigated the incident with a firm shouldering on Konstas, and then got involved with a verbal altercation. Although Usman Khawaja pacified the matter on the field, Kohli was addressed by the match referee, where he made a decision.

Virat Kohli learns Punishment for Sam Konstas Row

Virat Kohli has escaped a ban after the incident. Math referee Andy Pycroft, who is also taking charge of his 100th match as referee, handed the India player a 20 per cent match fee fine along with one demerit point.

The India player was at risk of receiving more demerit points and a ban, which could have kept him out of the Sydney Test. But Kohli and the Indian team is lucky that the star player has escaped a potential ban and graver consequences.

Australia wrapped up Day 1 of the fourth Test in Melbourne at 311 for 6, in a hard-fought contest against India. Marnus Labuschagne led the charge with a fluent 72, while Steve Smith anchored the innings and remained unbeaten on 68 at stumps. Jasprit Bumrah showcased his resilience, picking up three crucial wickets despite facing an early onslaught. Akash Deep, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar chipped in with a wicket each. With the series tied at 1-1, the match is evenly poised, setting the stage for a riveting Day 2 at the iconic MCG.