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Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has found itself again at the center of the controversy following the recently concluded Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Known for his intense personality on the field, Kohli’s fiery interactions and heated exchanges with the players have often made headlines, and this series has been no different. From a shoulder incident with an Australian player during the Melbourne Test to making fun of the infamous sandpaper scandal in the Sydney Test, Kohli’s actions have come under intense scrutiny. debate in the world of cricket.
Virat Kohli’s on-field feuds fuel the debate
Kohli made headlines for the first time during the Melbourne Test when Kohli and the Australian opener Constas himself they were engaged in a heated confrontation. The altercation occurred after the 10th over of Australia’s innings when Kohli appeared to rub shoulders with Konstas as he walked past him. The physical contact did not sit well with Konstas, who immediately expressed his discomfort. The situation turned into a verbal fight between the two players, which led to the intervention of the field umpires to restore order. While the exchange showcased Kohli’s aggressive demeanor, it also drew criticism for crossing the line of sportsmanship.
Kohli made waves again on the third day of the Sydney Test, where his spirited antics caught the attention of fans and critics alike. After Steve SmithKohli’s dismissal was seen making a “sandpaper” gesture towards the Australian crowd, an apparent reference to the infamous ball-tampering scandal of 2018. The scandal, which involved Smith, David Warneri Cameron Bancroft using sandpaper to alter 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 mocking gesture.
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Simon Katich’s scathing comments on Kohli’s behaviour
Former Australian cricketer Simon Katichwho worked with Kohli as coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2019, has weighed in on the recent incidents involving the Indian batsman. Katich questioned Kohli’s mentality during the tour, criticizing his physical contact in Melbourne and the sandpaper reference in Sydney as unnecessary and unpleasant incidents.
“I think you have to question what kind of headspace he’s been in on this tour to do that, making physical contact in Melbourne and even the other nasty incident in Sydney with the sandpaper reference there with the pockets” Katich said on ESPN’s Around the Wicket show.
Katich criticized Kohli’s actions, stating that they were unnecessary and referring to outdated controversies, ultimately suggesting that such behavior has tarnished Kohli’s reputation both on and off the field during this tour.
“I mean that in itself, there was no need for that. It’s old news, so in a way I think it’s tarnished his reputation a little bit on this tour, on and off the field.” Katich added.
