Workout
Meditation
Contact Us
Former Indian captain Virat Kohli has been criticized by the Australian media after a heated exchange with a journalist and a cameraman at Melbourne airport before the St. Stephen’s Day Quiz. The incident, which occurred last Thursday, has sparked controversy, with Kohli being branded a “thug” by the Nine Sports reporter. Tony Jones.
Kohli, who was traveling with his family, reportedly expressed frustration at being filmed upon arrival at the airport. The cricketer’s irritation was caught on camera, prompting harsh criticism from Australian journalists.
Nine Sports reporter criticizes Virat Kohli
Tony Jones, speaking on Melbourne radio 3AW, accused Kohli of unfairly attacking the Channel 7 reporter. Nat Yoanidis during the confrontation. Jones explained that the reporters and cameramen present were simply doing their jobs.
“Nat was there with a cameraman, just like a Channel 7 reporter with his cameraman, doing what we usually do: covering public figures, whether politicians or sports personalities.” Jones said. “Kohli, being the global superstar that he is, took issue with the attention focused on him. But what really got to me was when she turned to the male members of the team and said, ‘You guys are okay, it’s her.'”
Jones further criticized Kohli for singling out Yoannidis, whom he described as being significantly smaller in stature. “A big, tough man, Virat. He stood next to Nat Yoannidis, who is about five-foot-one or two, and absolutely berated her. You are nothing but a goon, Virat.” Jones commented.
SEE also: Virat Kohli loses his cool with the journalist upon arrival at Melbourne airport, the video goes viral
Ravindra Jadeja also under fire
The controversy spread beyond Kohli, with the Indian star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also faces criticism. Jadeja held a press conference conducted entirely in Hindi, a decision that frustrated some Australian journalists who were expecting answers in English. The language barrier reportedly caused confusion, further drawing the ire of local media.
Current tensions ahead of Boxing Day test
The incident adds another layer to simmering tensions between the two cricketing nations ahead of the much-anticipated Boxing Day Test. While the Indian team has remained silent on the issue, Australian media scrutiny highlights the intense attention paid to players during international tours.
As India and Australia prepare to face off in another Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, these off-field controversies are likely to keep the attention firmly fixed on the players both on and off the field.
