Australian media hits back at Virat Kohli after his heated exchange with a female journalist
Former Indian captain Virat Kohli has been criticized by the Australian media after a heated exchange with a reporter and a cameraman at Melbourne Airport before the Boxing Day Test. The incident, which happened last Thursday, has sparked controversy, with Kohli being labeled a “bully” by the Nine Sports reporter. Tony Jones.
Kohli, who was traveling with his family, expressed frustration at being filmed when he arrived at the airport. The cricketer’s irritation was caught on camera, prompting harsh criticism from Australian journalists.
Nine Sports reporter calls out Virat Kohli
Tony Jones, speaking on Melbourne’s 3AW radio, accused Kohli of unfairly targeting the Channel 7 reporter Nat Yoannidis 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 they’re politicians or sports figures.” Jones said. “Kohli, being the global superstar that he is, had trouble with the attention being focused on him. But what really surprised me was when he turned to the male crew members and said, ‘Okay, it’s her “.
Jones also criticized Kohli for singling out Yoannidis, who he described as significantly smaller in height. “A big, tough man, Virat. She stood next to Nat Yoannidis, who is about five foot one or two, and absolutely berated her. You are nothing but a thug, Virat. Jones commented.
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Ravindra Jadeja also under fire
The controversy extended beyond Kohli, with the star Indian 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 and further anger from the local media.
Ongoing tensions ahead of Boxing Day Test
The incident adds another layer to simmering tensions between the two cricketing nations ahead of the much-anticipated Christmas Day Test. Although the Indian team has remained silent on the issue, Australian media scrutiny highlights the intense prominence of the players during international tours.
As India and Australia prepare to face each other in another Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test, these off-field controversies are likely to keep the focus firmly fixed on the players both on and off the field.
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