Virat Kohli found himself in the middle of controversy after a heated exchange with Australian debutant Sam Konstas on Day 1 of the fourth Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting did not hold back in his criticism, accusing Kohli of deliberately instigating the confrontation.

The incident occurred during the 10th over of Australia’s first innings. As the players crossed paths after a single, Kohli made shoulder contact with the 19-year-old Konstas, sparking an exchange of words between the two. Usman Khawaja and the umpires quickly stepped in to defuse the situation.

WATCH: Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas Face Off in Heated Moment

Speaking during the Channel 7 broadcast, Ponting did not mince his words. He accused Kohli of intentionally provoking the young Australian, stating:

Ponting’s Comments: "Virat walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind whatsoever. Fielders should be nowhere near the batsman at that stage. Every fielder on the ground knows where the batsmen will congregate and get together."

Ponting further emphasized that Kohli’s actions were unnecessary and could have consequences: "It looked to me that Konstas looked up really late, wouldn’t even know anyone is in front of him. That man on-screen there (Kohli) might have a few questions to answer."

Echoing Ponting’s sentiments, former England captain Michael Vaughan also pointed out Kohli’s role in the altercation while speaking on Fox Cricket

Vaughan’s Comments: "Virat Kohli is a senior pro in the game, and he's just got rattled by a 19-year-old playing in the fashion that he's done. I don't know what the match referee will do, but I am pretty sure Virat will watch this back and think, wait a minute, I have got this wrong."

Despite the fiery exchange, Sam Konstas downplayed the incident when asked during the drinks break, stating: “Whatever happens on the field stays on the field.”