NEW DELHI: Melbourne witnessed excessive-octane cricket and heated moments throughout the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, the place Virat Kohli’s shoulder bump incident with Australian debutant Sam Konstas grew to become a main speaking level.
Konstas, in his very first Test look, surprised the cricketing world with a fearless show towards India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah. The younger batter executed a daring ramp shot for six over wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant’s head, leaving the Indian crew momentarily surprised. However, tensions boiled over at the tip of the tenth over when Kohli brushed shoulders with Konstas. The heated alternate that adopted noticed Usman Khawaja step in to diffuse the scenario.
Former Australia captain Michael Clarke weighed in on the incident, suggesting Kohli’s response stemmed from frustration at the respect – or lack thereof – proven to Bumrah.
“Virat is such a tough player. He will not take a backward step and never has throughout his whole career. I think Virat was getting frustrated with the lack of respect that Sam was showing as the best bowler in the world in Bumrah,” Clarke. remarked on the Beyond 23 Cricket Podcast.
Despite the fiery alternate, Clarke defended Kohli’s character, including, “I am sure he would have spoken to Sam after the game. Virat is a great guy. He is not a nasty person. I think it was Virat sticking up for his team. ”
Konstas went on to attain a formidable 60 off 65 deliveries, together with six fours and two sixes, earlier than falling to Ravindra Jadeja. Australia secured a commanding 184-run victory, taking a 2-1 lead within the collection.
In the identical recreation, one other Indian star emerged – Nitish Kumar Reddywhose maiden Test century got here at a essential juncture for India. Clarke praised the 21-12 months-outdated all-rounder, calling him a “genius” and advocating for his promotion within the batting order. “He has not feared any Australian bowler. He bats, bowls, and fields. This guy is a very good find for the Indian cricket team,” Clarke added.
