"Stubborn people don't listen to words; they need actions" - Fans divided over Virat Kohli-Sam Konstas shoulder barge in BGT 2024-25 4th Test

Former India skipper Virat Kohli and young Australian debutant Sam Konstas were involved in a heated altercation on the opening day (Thursday, December 26) of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 Test in Melbourne. While the majority of fans have sided with the 19-year-old, some have shown support for the legendary player.

The incident occurred after the 10th over of Australia's first innings when Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas bumped shoulders as they were moving across the pitch. It so appeared that the 19-year-old Australian was walking straight while Kohli deliberately walked down the pitch length to instigate the shoulder barge.

Virat Kohli received backlash from a few former cricketers for his behavior, including Ricky Ponting. However, fans on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) have put up divided reactions.

"If Australians sledged a 19-year-old using a bat, it would be considered part of cricket. If we only sledged, it would be a viølation of cricket. Sir Virat Kohli, please continue this viølation of cricket again and again. #INDvAUS #ViratKohli," a user tweeted.

Another user suggested that it was disgraceful behavior from the former India skipper and that he should not be allowed to play the next Test.

One user remarked that Kohli is struggling for form and is only bullying young players to stay relevant.

Similar views were put up by another user in his tweet that read:

"Kohli knows his batting isn't enough nowadays to stay in the limelight. So he's trying to do these irrelevant things to seek attention. #ViratKohli #INDvsAUS #AUSvIND."

As mentioned earlier, fans have also come out in support of the former Indian captain.

"Australians tweeting about how a 19 year old lad must be treated on the field Funny how the tables have turned.😭Don't forget that this was Australian team, who used to troll #ViratKohli at his debut. This is Peak Test cricket, grow up #INDvsAUS #AUSvsIND #BoxingDayTest," a tweet read.

"Stubborn people don't listen to words; they need actions, Aussies Deserves to this by Virat Kohli 🔥 🐐 #ViratKohli #BoxingDayTest," wrote another user.

Below are a few more reactions from users on the Kohli-Konstas shoulder barge:

"Virat Kohli should be either suspended or fined his match payments for that disgraceful action toward Konstas. What a sook! 👏 #AUSvIND #ViratKohli #INDvsAUS," a user tweeted.

"Virat Kohli attitude is amazing 🤩#ViratKohli #AUSvIND #INDvAUS #Siraj," wrote another user.

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Sam Konstas stands up to Virat Kohli and India on Day 1 of 4th BGT 2024-25 Test

19-year-old Sam Konstas is playing his maiden international game for Australia in the ongoing fourth BGT 2024-25 Test in Melbourne. Despite the shoulder barge incident with Virat Kohli and some sledging, the young batter impressed on his debut.

Taking the attack to the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, Konstas scored 60 runs off just 65 deliveries, including six fours and a couple of sixes. The youngster showed great skills and composure on his debut knock, combining with his opening partner Usman Khawaja to put on 89 runs for the first wicket.

Under pressure to perform and live up to the expectations first up, Konstas put up a commendable effort with the bat, showing signs of a bright future.