Sam Konstas Under Fire for On-Field Selfie with Fan at MCG Test

In the much-awaited Boxing Day Test match against India, contested at the storied Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), debutant batsman Sam Konstas excelled in his first appearance. With 34 runs in one stint, including an 18-run over, he completely destroyed India's top batsman Jasprit Bumrah.  

Against a strong Indian assault that included players like Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, Konstas scored an incredible 60 runs off just 65 balls in his first-ever appearance at the international arena. On his Test debut, Konstas became the second-youngest Australian to reach fifty. Ravindra Jadeja took Konstas out for sixty, but not before he got the crowded MCG audience to stand and cheer.

Konstas, who is new to playing international cricket, made a mistake during the game that could have cost him dearly. Konstas took selfies and signed autographs after being dismissed. After that, the player went back to the dressing room and soon after, he was seen talking to the official announcers. In addition, the cricket player can be in danger for the act of taking some photos with the supporters at the 'G'. 

 Sam Konstas MCG test controversy:

Play your first Test innings, make 60, then take some selfies.

All in a day's work for Sam Konstas #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/o4Nn5hvitt

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024

Any player or match official is prohibited from leaving the designated Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) without authorization from the relevant authority or authorities, as per the ICC's playing conditions and rules. The ICC's Minimum Standards for Players and Match Officials Areas (PMOA) on Anti-Corruption states, "Express permission is required to leave the PMOA during the match from the Anti-Corruption Manager (ACM); or, where the ACM is unavailable, the relevant team manager or Match Referee (in the case of a Match Official) who must notify the ACM at the earliest opportunity."

Additionally, it is not permitted to use any mobile devices or internet-connected gadgets during live matches. Although it is against the regulations for Konstas to take phones and take selfies, the match referee will have the last say. He might get a fine if he is proven guilty.

The ICC standards also say, "Communication devices are prohibited within the PMOA, barring specific exceptions. Without exception, no player shall be in possession of, or use a communication device (such as a mobile phone or a device which is connected to the internet, while in the PMΟΑ) Failure to comply with PMOA regulations may result in financial penalties."

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