An unforeseen interruption took place on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) when an individual breached security and rushed onto the field, attempting to embrace Indian cricket star Virat Kohli. The individual initially approached captain Rohit Sharma, who was positioned in the slip cordon, before redirecting his focus towards Kohli.

In a moment of unexpected drama, the intruder sought to hug the 36-year-old former Indian captain; Kohli reciprocated by placing his arm around the individual before security personnel promptly intervened, apprehending the intruder and removing him from the field.

This brief disruption led to a temporary pause in the match, but play resumed shortly thereafter without any further complications.

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This incident occurred in a highly charged environment at the venue, where Kohli had become the focal point following his confrontation with Australia’s 19-year-old debutant, Sam Konstas, on Day 1.

The clash between Kohli and Konstas had already ignited controversy, as Kohli responded defiantly to the crowd's jeers. He was penalized with a fine amounting to 20 percent of his match fees for the shoulder bump that took place at the conclusion of Day 1; however, Australian media and former cricketers, including Ricky Ponting, expressed their belief that a more severe sanction was warranted.

India faced a challenging morning session on Day 2, characterized by inconsistent bowling and subpar fielding, which allowed Australia to establish a formidable partnership for the seventh wicket.

Steve Smith and Pat Cummins took full advantage of India's lapses in discipline, forming a robust partnership that yielded 112 runs before Cummins was dismissed just one run short of a half-century. Earlier on Day 1, Konstas had made a remarkable debut, scoring 60 runs off just 65 balls. Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72) also contributed with half-centuries, while Steve Smith notched his second century of the series, finishing with 140 runs.

As India prepares to bat shortly, a notable reaction from the Australian crowd is anticipated when Virat Kohli steps onto the field at the MCG.