Indian cricket star Virat Kohli He once again found himself at the center of controversy after its recent conclusion Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Known for his intense personality on the field, Kohli's fiery interactions and heated exchanges with players often make headlines, and this series was no different. From a shoulder incident with an Australian player during the Melbourne Test to mocking the infamous sandpaper scandal in the Sydney Test, Kohli's actions have become the subject of intense debate in the cricket world.
Virat Kohli's on-field feuds spark controversy
Kohli first made headlines during the Melbourne Test when she opened for Kohli and Australia Konstas himself They got into a heated confrontation. The altercation occurred after the 10th over of Australia's innings when Kohli appeared to touch shoulders with Konstas as he passed by. The physical contact did not sit well with Constas, who immediately expressed his displeasure. The situation escalated into a verbal altercation between the players, which prompted the referees to intervene to restore order. While the exchange showed Kohli's aggressive behaviour, it also drew criticism for going beyond the bounds of sportsmanship.
Kohli once again caused a stir on the third day of the Sydney Test, with his animated gestures attracting the attention of fans and pundits alike. after Steve SmithAfter Kohli's dismissal, Kohli was seen making a “sandpaper” gesture towards the Australian crowd, in an apparent reference to the infamous ball-tampering scandal of 2018. The scandal in which Smith was implicated David Warnerand Cameron Bancroft The use of sandpaper to change the condition of the ball remains one of the darkest moments in Australian cricket history. Kohli's reference to the incident was widely seen as a sarcastic gesture.
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Simon Katich's scathing remarks about Kohli's behaviour
Former Australian cricketer Simon KatichWho worked with Kohli as a team coach Royal Challengers Bengaluru In 2019, he addressed the recent incidents involving the Indian batsman. Katich questioned Kohli's mentality during the tour, criticizing his physical contact in Melbourne and sandpapering in Sydney as unnecessary and unsavory incidents.
“I think you have to wonder what kind of headspace he was in on this tour to do that, make physical contact in Melbourne and then even the other nasty incident in Sydney with the sandpaper reference there with the pockets,Katich said on ESPN's About the Wicket show.
Katich criticized Kohli's actions, stating that they were unnecessary and pointing out outdated controversies, ultimately suggesting that such behavior had tarnished Kohli's reputation on and off the field during this tour.
“I mean, in and of itself there was no need for that. It's old news so I think he's tarnished his reputation somewhat on this tour, both on and off the field. Katich added.
