Virat Kohli has once again entered discussions within the Australian media, more than a month after the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Test series. This resurgence in conversation comes in light of the controversy surrounding Australian spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who has been reported for a suspected illegal bowling action. Kohli's name has resurfaced due to the renewed focus on his incident involving Sam Konstas and the subsequent disciplinary measures he faced.

Recently, Kuhnemann was flagged for a potential illegal bowling action following his impressive performance in the Test series against Sri Lanka, where concerns were raised by players from the home team. The left-arm spinner claimed 16 wickets at an average of 17.18, contributing to Australia's historic 2-0 series victory. He is now required to undergo testing to confirm the legality of his bowling action, which must not exceed a 15-degree extension of the elbow prior to delivery.

In the midst of this controversy, Australian cricket journalist Ben Horne revisited the Kohli incident with Konstas, criticizing the ICC for what he perceives as hypocrisy. Kohli had intentionally shoulder-barged Konstas during his debut Test but managed to avoid a suspension.

"Virat Kohli received one of the lightest penalties imaginable, while match officials in Sri Lanka were eager to penalize a five-Test orthodox spinner for a borderline bowling action," Horne commented in the Daily Telegraph over the weekend. "These are entirely different circumstances that should not even be compared, except for the recurring theme that the governing body of the sport is often ineffective... until an easy target like Kuhnemann comes along."

'Matt Kuhnemann's action is similar to Jasprit Bumrah'

Former Australian captain Tim Paine, in a discussion on SEN Radio, expressed his concerns regarding the scrutiny faced by Kuhnemann, suggesting that his bowling action bears a resemblance to that of Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. While Bumrah has faced criticism from various experts for similar reasons, the ICC maintains that his arm 'hyperextends' rather than bends.

“There appears to be some flexion, not unlike that of Jasprit Bumrah," Paine remarked. “I would assume he would be feeling quite low. In cricket, being accused of throwing is a serious allegation that tarnishes one's reputation, implying a form of cheating.

“I can only imagine how challenging it must be for him to navigate such public scrutiny. He likely left the field feeling elated, but by the time he returns to his hotel room, he may find himself at an emotional low, grappling with the potential threat to his career."

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