Virat Kohli - the star Indian batsman - could face disciplinary action after an on-field incident involving Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.

Sources within the International Cricket Council (ICC) have indicated that the matter will be reviewed by the match officials, with a potential punishment on the horizon for Kohli.

The altercation took place during a break in play between the 10th and 11th overs of Australia's innings, when Konstas and Usman Khawaja were switching ends.

Kohli, walking toward the young Australian batter, appeared to deliberately shoulder him.

As the cameras captured the moment, it became evident that Kohli was fully aware of his trajectory, while Konstas, distracted by his gloves, did not anticipate the collision.

Ricky Ponting, former Australian captain and commentator during the match, noted that Kohli’s actions seemed intentional. "It looked like he deliberately made contact with the debutant," Ponting remarked.

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The incident has sparked considerable debate, and the ICC is now set to review the footage to assess whether any action is warranted. "It is up to the match referee and umpires to review the footage and call the players for an explanation," said a senior source within the ICC.

If Kohli’s explanation fails to satisfy the officials, he may face demerit points, which could result in a fine or suspension if accumulated over a certain period.

The incident occurred in the heat of competition, with Konstas, a teenager playing his first Test match, visibly involved in aggressive exchanges with Indian fast bowlers. Kohli's actions have drawn widespread attention, with fans and pundits alike speculating on the motivations behind the shoulder nudge.

The ICC has yet to make an official statement, but the final decision will rest on the match referee’s report.

The potential for punishment, however, looms large, with Kohli’s disciplinary record coming under scrutiny. According to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which oversees the laws of cricket, "making inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with another player" constitutes a Level 2 offence under Chapter 42.1 of the laws, which covers "Unacceptable Conduct."