The Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has once again showcased the fierce rivalry between India and Australia. On the opening day, the intensity of the Indian team was evident, particularly when Virat Kohli instructed his teammates to avoid engaging with the Australian batters.

The moment occurred while Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja were at the crease. A brief interaction between Labuschagne and Mohammed Siraj led to Kohli’s comments being picked up on the stump mic. Siraj and Labuschagne had exchanged words earlier in the series, but this time the conversation took a friendlier tone. Unimpressed, Kohli was heard saying, "Has ke baat nahi karna inse," meaning "Don’t talk to them laughingly."

Adding to the drama of the day, debutant Sam Konstas delivered a striking performance with a quick-fire half-century off just 52 balls after Australian skipper Pat Cummins opted to bat first. However, Konstas wasn’t only in the spotlight for his batting. A heated altercation unfolded between him and Kohli following a shoulder bump during play. The incident escalated into an animated verbal exchange, requiring intervention from umpires and other players to de-escalate tensions.

Kohli’s clash with Konstas came as the debutant consistently attempted to ramp Jasprit Bumrah’s deliveries. Although Konstas’ innings were commendable, he eventually fell to a well-executed ball from Ravindra Jadeja.

As the match progressed, Australia’s innings stood at 155/2 after 46.3 overs, with Labuschagne and Steve Smith steadying the ship. The pair looked determined to guide their team to a commanding first-innings total against a competitive Indian bowling attack.