The incident occurred during the 1998 Coca Cola Cup.
India’s star batsman Virat Kohli raised the temperature in the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after an intense clash with Australian teenage debutant Sam Konstas. Earlier today, on Day 1 of the 4th Test in Melbourne, things really got heated when Virat Kohli had a minor run-in with Konstas, where the Indian veteran was involved in a shoulder-bumping incident with the youngster.
The incident sparked mixed reactions among cricket fans, with former Australian captain Ricky Ponting quickly placing the blame on Kohli, claiming he had “instigated” the confrontation.
The former Australian captain said: “Look where Virat is walking. Virat walked a full delivery to his right and instigated that confrontation. I have no doubt.”
However, it was surprising that the accusation came from Ponting, as the internet was quick to remind the Australian of a similar incident from his confrontation with a 17-year-old Harbhajan Singh in 1998 during the Coca Cola Cup.
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What happened between Ricky Ponting and Harbhajan Singh?
A young Harbhajan Singh was just beginning his journey in international cricket, riding high after an impressive three-wicket performance against Australia. However, Ricky Ponting was determined to make his presence felt and unleashed an aggressive attack, smashing boundaries to race to 31 off 25 balls.
However, Harbhajan was not one to shy away from a challenge. In the same over, the teenage spinner cleverly outwitted Ponting, who was stumped by Nayan Mongia. Harbhajan’s fiery farewell made it clear who had emerged victorious from that battle.
A furious Ponting was not about to take it easy. On his way back to the pavilion, he deliberately bumped into Harbhajan and exchanged heated words. This intense moment marked the beginning of one of cricket’s most legendary rivalries, with Ponting often battling Harbhajan in the years that followed.
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