Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has once again found himself at the center of controversy following the recently-concluded Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Known for his intense on-field persona, Kohli’s fiery interactions and heated exchanges with players have often made headlines, and this series has been no different. From a shoulder incident with an Australian player during the Melbourne Test to mocking the infamous Sandpaper Scandal in the Sydney Test, Kohli’s actions have become the subject of intense debate in the cricketing world.

Virat Kohli’s on-field feuds fuel debate

Kohli first made headlines during the Melbourne Test when Kohli and Australian opener Sam Konstas were involved in a heated confrontation. The altercation occurred after the 10th over of Australia’s innings when Kohli appeared to brush shoulders with Konstas while walking past him. The physical contact did not sit well with Konstas, who immediately expressed his displeasure. The situation escalated into a verbal spat between the two players, prompting the intervention of on-field umpires to restore order. While the exchange showcased Kohli’s aggressive demeanor, it also drew criticism for crossing the line of sportsmanship.

Kohli again made waves on the third day of the Sydney Test, where his animated gestures caught the attention of fans and critics alike. After Steve Smith’s dismissal, Kohli was seen making a “sandpaper” gesture toward the Australian crowd, an apparent reference to the infamous 2018 ball-tampering scandal. The scandal, which involved Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft using sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball, remains one of the darkest moments in Australian cricket history. Kohli’s reference to the incident was widely seen as a mocking gesture.

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Simon Katich’s scathing remarks on Kohli’s behavior 

Former Australian cricketer Simon Katich, who worked with Kohli as the coach of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2019, has weighed in on the recent incidents involving the Indian batter. Katich questioned Kohli’s mindset during the tour, criticizing his physical contact in Melbourne and the sandpaper reference in Sydney as unnecessary and unsavory incidents.

“I think you have to question what sort of headspace he’s been in on this tour to be doing that, making physical contact in Melbourne and then even the other unsavoury incident in Sydney with the sandpaper reference there with the pockets,” Katich said on ESPN’s Around the Wicket show.

Katich criticized Kohli’s actions, stating they were unnecessary and referencing outdated controversies, ultimately suggesting that such behavior has tarnished Kohli’s reputation both on and off the field during this tour.

“I mean that in itself, there was no need for that. It’s old news so in a way I think he’s tarnished his reputation somewhat on this tour, on and off the field,” Katich added.

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