In the ongoing India vs Australia 4th Test match in Melbourne, former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has been fined 20% of his match fee following a shoulder barge incident with Australian debutant Sam Konstas. The altercation took place after the completion of the 10th over of the Australian innings when both players crossed paths on the field. As they moved across the pitch, Kohli and Konstas bumped shoulders, which led to an exchange of heated words. The incident was quickly defused by Australian player Usman Khawaja, who stepped in to separate the two.

Kohli was subsequently charged with a Level 1 offence under the ICC's Code of Conduct, which prohibits any form of inappropriate physical contact between players. This charge resulted in a fine of 20% of Kohli’s match fee. Despite some speculation about a potential suspension, Kohli avoided further disciplinary action since Level 1 offences carry only fines, and more serious offences (Level 2) could lead to demerit points or suspension.

Konstas, who was batting at the time, downplayed the confrontation, suggesting it was accidental and a result of the tensions on the field. He noted, "That's cricket and can happen with tension." However, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting criticized Kohli for instigating the exchange, stating that Kohli’s approach across the pitch was intentional and could have caused the confrontation.

Ultimately, the incident was resolved without further consequences for Kohli, who received a fine, while Konstas continued his debut innings, scoring a half-century before being dismissed.