Sam Konstas, Australia’s teenage sensation, created a buzz on Day 5 of the fourth Test at the MCG. Known for his animated antics, the 19-year-old debutant entertained the crowd with a cheeky dig at Indian superstar Virat Kohli.
In response to a request from Australian fans, Konstas imitated Kohli’s shoulder bump from an earlier confrontation. The gesture delighted the home crowd but left Indian fans less amused. The moment quickly went viral, sparking widespread debate and laughter on social media.
The Incident That Sparked the Drama
The shoulder bump Konstas mocked wasn’t just playful banter—it had roots in a heated exchange. During the first innings, Kohli walked toward Konstas and delivered a shoulder bump after the teenager played unorthodox shots against Jasprit Bumrah. Tempers flared, and on-field umpire Usman Khawaja had to step in to defuse the situation.
The ICC fined Kohli 20% of his match fee and handed him a demerit point for the incident. Unfortunately for Kohli, his on-field struggles continued. On Day 5, he fell for just five runs off 29 balls, edging Mitchell Starc to the slips before lunch. This marked Kohli’s fourth single-digit score in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Konstas’ Fiery Start and Witty Comebacks
Konstas had already made headlines earlier in the match. On debut, he smashed a fearless 60 in the first innings, taking 18 runs off a single over from Bumrah—his most expensive over in Test cricket. But Day 4 didn’t favor the young opener, as Bumrah had the last laugh, dismissing Konstas for a single-digit score. Bumrah celebrated by urging the crowd to roar, adding another layer to the ongoing banter.
Konstas didn’t shy away from playing to the gallery on Day 5. Fielding at close-in positions, he actively engaged with fans and sledged Indian batters, particularly Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Kohli’s Form Under Scrutiny
Kohli’s recent struggles have fueled speculation about his future in Test cricket. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, however, dismissed retirement rumors. Speaking on Star Sports, Shastri backed Kohli to continue for a few more years.
“I think Virat Kohli will play. Forget the way he got out today. He’ll play for three or four more years,” Shastri said.
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