'Not harsh enough': Ponting criticises Virat Kohli's fine

Renowned former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has expressed his disapproval of the International Cricket Council's decision to levy a mere 20 percent match fee fine on Indian cricket star Virat Kohli following his altercation with Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Ponting has criticized the punishment as insufficient, deeming it not severe enough considering the gravity of the incident.

The controversy unfolded during a tense moment in the match when Kohli engaged in physical contact with Konstas by shoulder-bumping him. This incident cast a shadow over an otherwise impressive debut for the 19-year-old Australian batsman, who showcased his talent with a fearless 60-run innings. Konstas notably took on India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, scoring 34 runs off him, which included two powerful sixes.

In response to the altercation, the ICC imposed a fine on Kohli amounting to 20 percent of his match fee and also issued one demerit point on his disciplinary record.