The Australian fans got furious towards Virat Kohli during the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), booing the Indian batter as he walked back to the pavilion following his dismissal on Day 2.
During the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Australian crowd turned hostile against Virat Kohli, booing the Indian batter as he walked back to the pavilion following his dismissal on Day 2. Kohli, who was dismissed for 36, briefly turned back toward the stands in frustration, seemingly prompted by a comment from a spectator, and his reaction, which appeared to be a stand-off with the fans, has sparked widespread online debate.
This incident adds to the growing pressure Kohli is facing during the present India-Australia Test series. On Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test, the former Indian skipper was involved in a contentious incident with 19-year-old Australian rookie Sam Konstas. Kohli, who appeared concerned by Konstas’ impressive stroke play against Jasprit Bumrah, resorted to verbal taunting and purposely clashed with the young batter, striking him with his shoulder.
The Australian media was quick to criticize Kohli’s actions, referring to him as a “clown” in local headlines—a word that has subsequently acquired popularity on social media. Former Australian cricketers also spoke out, calling Kohli’s behavior unsportsmanlike and wanting harsher punishment.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) fined Kohli 20% of his match pay and issued him a demerit point, but many Australians felt the penalty was too moderate, with several advocating for a one-match suspension. Kohli was labelled as a “coward” and a “crybaby” by sections of the Australian press.
