December 26, 2024: The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly set to review a controversial on-field altercation between Indian cricket star Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas during Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Kohli appeared to intentionally bump into Konstas, who had been engaged in a fiery battle with the Indian bowlers after Australia chose to bat first.

The incident occurred during the break between the 10th and 11th overs of the Australian innings. As Konstas and Usman Khawaja switched ends, Kohli walked toward the young batter and seemingly made contact with him. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who was commentating at the time, suggested that the contact appeared deliberate. Replays seemed to confirm that Kohli was aware of his movement, while Konstas, focused on adjusting his gloves, unwittingly walked into the Indian batter.

According to sources within the ICC, the incident has caught the governing body’s attention and could lead to disciplinary action. "It is now up to the match referee and umpires to review the footage and assess the situation. They may call the players involved for explanations," said a senior ICC source.

The clash came amid the intensity of the game, with Konstas making his debut for Australia. Kohli’s apparent shoulder nudge quickly became the subject of heated discussions across social media, with fans and pundits offering differing opinions on whether the contact was intentional.

"If Kohli’s explanation doesn’t satisfy the officials, he could face demerit points as part of the ICC’s disciplinary process," the source added. The ICC’s disciplinary system uses demerit points to punish players, with accumulations leading to fines or, in some cases, suspension.

Though the ICC has not yet released an official statement on the matter, the altercation has already sparked considerable debate. The final decision rests with the match referee and umpires, whose report will determine whether Kohli faces punishment.

"Let’s see what stand the referee takes," the ICC source concluded. As the cricket world awaits the outcome, this incident has already added a dramatic twist to the ongoing Boxing Day Test.