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Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan has openly criticized the Australian media for its disparaging portrayal of Virat Kohli. Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan expressed his disapproval over the ‘Clown Kohli’ headline, which followed a heated incident between Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Pathan did not mince his words in calling the Australian media’s approach hypocritical. “The first thing is that the Australian media is pushing the boundaries of double standards,” he said firmly. “First they make you king and then they show aggression by calling you a joker.”
Use popularity to make profits?
The former India all-rounder also questioned the media’s intention behind such narratives. He accused them of exploiting Kohli’s global popularity for commercial gains. “You are using the cricketer’s popularity to make money. That way, heads and tails are yours, which is not acceptable to any of us former cricketers, especially Indians,” Pathan said.
This sentiment resonates strongly with Indian fans who have taken to social media to denounce what they see as a campaign directed against their star batsman.
Pathan did not simply point out the current inconsistencies. He mentioned past cases of questionable behavior by Australian players that were downplayed or overlooked. “What Virat Kohli has done is wrong, there is no doubt, but the ICC decides the amount of punishment,” he clarified. “The Australian media is making a big fuss about it, but they forget what their players did in the past, spitting on Ramnaresh Sarwan and cursing at his family.”
Support from Sunil Gavaskar
Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar also joined the discussion, endorsing Pathan’s sentiments. Gavaskar attacked the Australian media, accusing them of playing as their team’s “12th man”. He emphasized their selective criticism, pointing out how they conveniently ignore the misconduct of their players while vilifying their opponents.
Humiliated in headlines: Virat Kohli labeled ‘crybaby’ by Australian media after controversial incident
The controversy began on Day 1 of the fourth Test when Kohli collided with Konstas during the 10th over. The verbal exchange that followed led to the ICC imposing a fine of 20% of Kohli’s match fee along with a demerit point. While Kohli accepted the penalty, the exaggerated response from the Australian media, including the headline “Clown Kohli”, has sparked outrage.
Indian cricket enthusiasts have expressed their support for Kohli. Many see the Australian media’s portrayal as a calculated ploy to divert attention from their team’s flaws. Social media has been flooded with posts criticizing the “double standards” highlighted by Pathan and Gavaskar.
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