Virat Kohli’s Test cricket career has been marked by numerous controversial and intense moments, showcasing his fierce competitiveness and emotional approach to the game. From his early days as a player to his role as captain, Kohli’s on-field incidents have ranged from showing the middle finger to Australian crowds in 2012 to confrontations with opponents and questioning DRS decisions, making him one of cricket’s most passionate figures in the red-ball format.2012: Middle-Finger Controversy
The 2012 Sydney Cricket Ground incident marked Kohli’s first major controversy in Test cricket. After facing continuous verbal abuse from the Australian crowd while fielding, he responded with a middle finger gesture. The ICC fined him 50% of his match fee, though Kohli defended his actions, stating the crowd’s abuse had crossed acceptable limits.2014: Passion meets provocation at Adelaide
The 2014 Adelaide Test, Kohli’s first as captain in MS Dhoni’s absence, saw heated exchanges with Mitchell Johnson and Brad Haddin. Despite being hit by bouncers and facing sledging, Kohli responded with two centuries and led India’s aggressive response.“I respect a few of them, but I have no reason to respect anyone who doesn’t respect me,” Kohli declared after the match.2017: DRS, Steve Smith ‘Cheating’ sagaThe 2017 Bengaluru Test against Australia produced one of the most significant controversies of Kohli’s career. He accused the Australian team of systematic cheating when Steve Smith looked toward the dressing room for DRS assistance. While Smith termed it a “brain fade,” Kohli maintained it wasn’t an isolated incident.2021: Lord’s Test heroics and hostilities
The 2021 Lord’s Test against England highlighted Kohli’s leadership style. Following Jasprit Bumrah’s spell against James Anderson, the match became increasingly hostile. Kohli engaged in verbal exchanges with Jos Buttler and Ollie Robinson, leading India to a memorable victory.2014 and 2018: James Anderson rivalryKohli’s rivalry with James Anderson spans multiple series. After struggling against Anderson in 2014, Kohli returned in 2018 to score 593 runs in the series. Their encounters featured intense verbal exchanges and dramatic celebrations.2022: The DRS stump mic outburst
The 2022 Cape Town Test saw Kohli approach the stump microphone to criticise broadcaster SuperSport after a DRS decision. “Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball… not just the opposition,” Kohli remarked, suggesting potential manipulation.2018: ‘Mic Drop’ against EnglandDuring the 2018 Edgbaston Test, Kohli mimicked Joe Root’s “mic drop” celebration after running him out. While Kohli later described it as playful banter, the gesture carried clear competitive undertones.2024: Brushing shoulders with Sam KonstasIn his recent appearance at the 2024 Boxing Day Test at MCG, Kohli had a shoulder brush and exchange with debutant Sam Konstas. The incident resulted in an ICC sanction.Following the match, Konstas described Kohli as “a lovely person” and “a legend of the game” after their post-match conversation.
