Humiliated in Headlines: Virat Kohli Tagged ‘Crybaby’ by Australian Media Post Controversial Incident

Virat Kohli’s Australian journey has seen admiration turn to hostility within weeks. When the Indian cricket icon landed in Perth last month, the local media celebrated his arrival with fervour. A leading publication even featured a Hindi headline, calling him the “King” to captivate the massive Indian fanbase. Yet, following an on-field altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas, Kohli now finds himself vilified by the same press.

Kohli vs Sam Konstas in MCG

The controversy unfolded during the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. On Day 1, at the end of the 10th over, Kohli and Konstas crossed paths—literally. As Konstas adjusted his gloves and moved to the opposite crease, Kohli’s trajectory led to a deliberate-looking bump. Tensions flared immediately. Words flew between the seasoned Indian batter and the young Australian, forcing the umpire to step in and defuse the situation.

Match officials, including on-field umpires Joel Wilson and Michael Gough, found Kohli’s conduct inappropriate. Match referee Andy Pycroft proposed sanctions, which Kohli accepted without contest. “Virat Kohli has been fined 20 percent of his match fee and awarded one demerit point,” read the ICC’s official statement. By accepting the penalty, Kohli avoided a formal hearing and further consequences.

Ricky Ponting Blasts ICC: Kohli’s Boxing Day Sanction Too Lenient

While Australian cricket circles condemned Kohli, Indian fans rallied in his defence. Social media erupted with divided opinions, with some applauding his aggression as a competitive spirit and others questioning his judgment. The incident further inflamed the already intense rivalry between the two cricketing giants.

From “King” to “Clown”—Australian Media’s Scathing Take

Australian newspaper The West Australian didn’t hold back in its criticism. Using the headline “Clown Kohli,” the piece harshly criticized his actions. The slug beneath twisted the knife further: “Indian sook slammed for pathetic bump in teen’s dream Test debut.” Notably, the term “sook,” popular in Tasmania, equates to calling someone a coward or crybaby.

Veteran Australian cricketers quickly chimed in, some demanding Kohli’s suspension by the ICC. However, the governing body chose leniency. Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee and received a demerit point under Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct.

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