Virat Kohli to face 1 match ban following physical altercation with Sam Konstas? Here's what ICC rulebook states

Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has recently come under scrutiny for his actions during a clash with Australian newcomer Sam Konstas. During the 4th Test at the MCG, Konstas put on an impressive performance against Indian bowlers, which seemed to unsettle Kohli. In an attempt to rattle the young batter, Kohli appeared to intentionally shoulder-push Konstas, leading to a heated confrontation on the field. Former cricketers such as Ricky Ponting and Michael Vaughan have called for an ICC investigation into Kohli's behavior.

Ponting has expressed his belief that the umpires and match referee will need to address Kohli's actions and take appropriate action to prevent any further incidents of aggression on the field. It is expected that the ICC will review the matter and make a decision regarding any potential sanctions against Kohli.

"Virat walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation," Ponting said on Channel Seven. "No doubt in my mind whatsoever. I have no doubt that the umpires and the referee will have a good look at that. Fielders should be nowhere near the batsman at that stage. Every fieldsman on the ground knows where the batsmen will congregate and get together."

Kohli and Konstas come together and make contact #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/adb09clEqd

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024

Ponting also defended his countryman, suggesting that the 19-year-old was caught off guard and had limited options to avoid the shoulder push by Kohli.

"It looked to me that Konstas looked up really late, and wouldn't even know anyone was in front of him. That man on-screen there (Kohli) might have a few questions to answer," Ponting said.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan also expressed similar sentiments to Ponting, stating that the match referee should thoroughly investigate the matter and take appropriate action against Kohli.

Here's what ICC rule says

The incident falls under Law 2.12, which prohibits inappropriate physical contact with a player, player support personnel, umpire, match referee, or any other individual, including spectators, during an international match.

The rule further says: " Note: Any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited in cricket. Without limitation, Players will breach this regulation if they deliberately, recklessly and/or negligently walk or run into or shoulder another Player or Umpire. When assessing the seriousness of the breach, the following factors (without limitation) shall be taken into account: (i) the context of the particular situation, including, without limitation, whether the contact was deliberate (i.e. intentional), reckless, negligent, and/or avoidable; (ii) the force of the contact; (iii) any resulting injury to the person with whom contact was made; and (iv) the person with whom contact was made. Level 1 (Level 1 is available only in the case of contact with Players, Player Support ..."

The ultimate decision regarding this matter will be made by ICC match referee Andy Pycroft. If Pycroft deems it to be a Level 2 offense, Kohli may receive 3-4 demerit points, potentially resulting in his suspension from the Sydney match. However, if only a Level 1 offense is determined, Kohli may only face a fine.

Also read| IND vs AUS 4th Test Day 1 highlights: Jasprit Bumrah takes 3 as debutant Sam Konstas takes Australia to 311/6 at stumps