During the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy match between India and Australia in Melbourne, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli along with Australian batter Sam Konstas got involved in a serious controversy. Kohli was seen shouldering the batter in between the change of overs. Many experts and pundits criticized Virat Kohli, suggesting that he intentionally shoulder-barged the 19-year-old opener during the match.
Sam Konstas, who made his Test debut in the match against India, impressed with his solid performance, showcasing his skills and composure under pressure. He attacked the Indian bowling attack, scoring a quickfire knock of 60 runs in 65 balls.
Virat Kohli, who is known for his aggression on the field, displayed his trademark intensity and leadership, often motivating his team with his fiery passion and commitment.
Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting bashed the Indian cricketer for his unnecessary and stupid action. He stated, “Have a look where Virat walks. Virat’s walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever.”
After his remarks, a famous video from the year 1998 has been trending over the internet. The video includes Ricky Ponting and Harbhajan Singh during the 1998 tri-series at Sharjah. In the clip, Ponting was seen pushing himself towards the former Indian spinner after the latter got the better of him, exchanging a few heated words before heading back to the pavilion.
This sparked discussions among netizens about Ponting’s hypocrisy in commenting on an incident he himself was involved in during his playing days, with many pointing out the contradiction between his words and actions on the field.
In this match, Sachin Tendulkar played a stunning knock of 143 off just 131 balls, giving India a fighting chance. Although the match ended in Australia’s favor, Tendulkar’s brilliant performance at Sharjah, which kept the Men in Blue in the contest until the very end, is still regarded as one of the finest innings in ODI history.
Despite losing that game, the team avenged the defeat in the final, clinching the tri-series title under the leadership of Mohammad Azharuddin.
