Irfan Pathan and Sunil Gavaskar have recently taken a strong stand against the Australian media’s treatment of Indian cricket star Virat Kohli, criticizing the perceived double standards and sensationalism that have characterized the coverage of Kohli’s actions during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Their comments come in light of an incident involving Kohli and Australia debutant Sam Konstas, which has ignited a media firestorm.

Irfan Pathan slams Australian media over the controversy

Pathan did not hold back in his condemnation of the Australian press, labeling their scrutiny of Kohli as a “witch hunt.” He argued that the media’s constant bashing of Kohli is not merely about cricket but rather an attempt to exploit his immense popularity to rekindle interest in the sport within Australia. Pathan pointed out the hypocrisy in the way Australian media has historically celebrated Kohli as a “king” one moment, only to vilify him as a “joker” the next. This inconsistency, he noted, reflects a broader trend where media outlets capitalize on cricketers’ fame while failing to hold their own players accountable for similar or worse behaviors on the field.

Pathan’s remarks were particularly pointed regarding an incident where Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee for shouldering Konstas during play. While acknowledging that Kohli’s actions were not defensible, Pathan emphasized that it is ultimately the responsibility of the International Cricket Council (ICC) to determine appropriate penalties. He criticized the media for blowing the incident out of proportion, suggesting that they are using Kohli’s image as a scapegoat to sell newspapers and generate buzz around cricket.

“First of all, the newspapers and even some ex-cricketers here are showing heights of double standards. One moment you are hailing a man as king, and the very next moment, when he shows some aggression on the field, you are going to call him a joker? We have never supported what he (Kohli) has done, but the referee is going to do his job, the necessary action will be taken. But calling him a joker after all of that. You are just using him and trying to make cricket famous in the country again. But how are you doing that? You are using Virat Kohli’s market value, and we will absolutely not accept that,” Pathan said on Star Sports.

Also ?WATCH: Temper raises as Virat Kohli nearly clashes with Australian fans on Day 2 of AUS vs IND Test

Sunil Gavaskar terms it as double standards at play

Gavaskar, another cricketing legend, echoed Pathan’s sentiments during a discussion. He highlighted how Australian media often adopts a dual standard—celebrating aggressive play when exhibited by their own players but condemning it harshly when it comes from opponents like Kohli. Gavaskar remarked that the media acts like the “12th man” for Australia, targeting players who pose significant challenges to their dominance in cricket. His comments underscore a long-standing frustration among Indian cricketers regarding how they are portrayed compared to their Australian counterparts.

“This is old news. It’s always ‘if we do it, it’s alright, if you do it, it’s a crime’,” Gavaskar concluded.

Gavaskar also recounted his own experiences with the Australian media, recalling how he faced intense scrutiny during his playing days. He emphasized that while aggression is often celebrated in Australian cr??icket culture, it becomes a point of contention when directed at their players. This selective outrage further complicates discussions around sportsmanship and fair play in cricket.

Here’s the video:

🗣 @IrfanPathan Pathan doesn’t hold back, calls out the #Australian media on the Kohli-Konstas incident 🫣#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 4th Test, Day 2 LIVE NOW! | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/S26P7Oq3b0

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 27, 2024

Virat Kohli faced off-field challenges of privacy violation

The scrutiny faced by Kohli extends beyond the pitch. Recently, he encountered an altercation with Australian media personnel at an airport, where they attempted to photograph him alongside his family. This incident has further fueled discussions about the invasion of privacy that high-profile athletes endure, especially when they are vocal about wanting to protect their family’s privacy. Kohli’s insistence on maintaining boundaries for his family adds another layer of complexity to his public persona and highlights the challenges athletes face in balancing personal life with public expectations.

Also WATCH: Yashasvi Jaiswal’s run out blunder with V?irat Kohli leaves India reeling on Day 2 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

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The stage is set for the second Test between Australia and India, the exciting Pink Ball encounter at the Adelaide Oval. India enter this match riding high on confidence after a dominant performance in the Perth Test, which g??ave them a crucial 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Fa??ns are optimistic about another memorable performance, but the Australians, known for their resilience, will be desperate to bounce back.

Notably, Adelaide has historically been a fortress for the hosts in Day-Night Tests. With an impeccable record of never losing a Pink Ball Test at this venue, Australia will rely on their experience and master?y of conditions to put India under pressure. However, Team India, known for ?rewriting history, will aim to conquer Adelaide and extend their lead in the series.

Pink Ball: A Test of skill and patience

The Pi?nk Ball Test presents a unique challenge, unlike any other format in cricket. The pink ball, with its extra lacquer and seam movement, behaves unpredictably, especially under lights. Evening sessions are often regarded as the most challenging phase for batters, as the twilight hours bring a significant shift in conditions. The ball tends to swing more, se?am off the pitch, and skid sharply, making survival difficult.

History has shown that wickets tend to tumble rapidly during this phase of the game, often turning the tide in favor of the bowling side. For batters, it requires a blen??d of technical skill, patience, and sharp judgment to navigate these tricky sessions. Teams that handle this phase effectively often find themselves in ?a commanding position.

Also READ: AUS vs?? IND: Wasim Jaffer explains why Ravichandran Ashwin should play over Washin??gton Sundar in the Pink Ball Test

Irfan Pathan’s success mantra for Team India

Ahead of the crucial encounter, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan shared his insights on how India can secure a victory in Adelaide. Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan highlighted the critical importance of tackling the evening ses??sions in day-night cricket.

Pathan’s advice stresses the need for Indian batters to approach the twilight period with caution and determination. He believes that maintaining composure and avoiding collapses during the e??vening will be pivotal in India’s quest for victory. His comments serve as a blueprint for India to overcome the unique challenges of the Pink Ball Test and emerge victorious against a formidable Australian side.

“One more thing which is very important and which is talked about is that when it is evening, wickets suddenly fall in the day-night Test. This is the most difficult time in the pink ball Test match, and you see that a lot of wickets fall during this time. If you counter this thing, then I think this Test match will be completely ours,” Pathan remarked.

Also RE??AD: AUS vs IND, Pink Ball Test: Adelaide Weather Forecas??t for all 5 days | Australia vs India 2024

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