Ricky Ponting Blasts ICC: Kohli’s Boxing Day Sanction Too Lenient
By Aayush Pathak December 27, 2024
The Boxing Day Test between Australia and India saw drama both on and off the field. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has criticized the International Cricket Council (ICC) for its “lenient” sanction on Indian star Virat Kohli following a shoulder barge incident with debutant Sam Konstas.
Ricky Ponting: “Not Harsh Enough”
Ponting didn’t mince words. He labelled the ICC’s decision as inadequate, pointing to the potential broader consequences of such incidents. “Personally, I don’t think it was harsh enough,” Ponting remarked during a Channel 7 broadcast. “Imagine if this happens in a grade game now. People might start thinking it’s acceptable.”
The incident occurred during the 10th over of Australia’s innings on Day 1. Kohli was seen walking toward Konstas and deliberately bumping his shoulder into the young batter. On-field umpires Joel Wilson and Michael Gough, along with third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Shawn Craig, charged Kohli under Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
Kohli Accepted the Charges
Match referee Andy Pycroft determined it to be a Level 1 offence. Kohli received a 20% fine on his match fee and one demerit point. Level 1 breaches generally carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a maximum of 50% match fee fines and up to two demerit points.
Kohli accepted the charge and the ban without appealing. This might have ended the matter but hasn’t stopped the criticism of the ICC.
Ponting’s comments haven’t gone down well with many Indian fans. Many took to social media to call out what they thought was unnecessary targeting of Kohli. But Ponting stood by his words, saying setting high standards is important, especially during big games.
“This wasn’t just any game; it’s the Boxing Day Test. Millions were watching,” he added.
Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar entered the debate and offered a more balanced view. While he agreed Kohli was wrong, he said the punishment fit the crime. “Let’s not make a mountain out of a molehill. The punishment fits the crime,” he said in a post-match interview.
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