Watch: Virat Kohli teases Australian crowd with sandpaper gesture after Steve Smith’s wicket on Day 3 of Sydney Test

Virat Kohli engaged in a controversial gesture towards the crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) during the lunch break on the third day of the match. Following Steve Smith's dismissal the crowd began jeering at Virat known for his animated presence on the field, did not hesitate to respond in kind.

In a provocative move, Virat displayed empty pockets to taunt the Australian fans evoking memories of the infamous Sandpaper Gate scandal that occurred during Australia's tour of South Africa in 2018. During that incident, Cameron Bancroft was caught using sandpaper on the ball leading to widespread condemnation and repercussions for the Australian cricket team.

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"What is that about?"#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HwNZXhKW1S

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025

Cricket Australia imposed bans on Bancroft, Steve Smith, and David Warner for their involvement in the Sandpaper Gate scandal. Bancroft made his return to the game after serving a nine-month suspension while Warner and Smith were both sanctioned for a year. Additionally, Smith was stripped of his captaincy privileges for two years while Warner faced a lifetime ban from holding the captaincy. However, Warner's ban was lifted in October 2024.

In the SCG Test, Australia was tasked with chasing a target of 162. The Australian bowlers performed admirably dismissing India for a mere total of 157.

At lunch, Australia stood at 71/3 with Prasidh Krishna emerging as the standout pacer in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.

Although Bumrah made an appearance to bat on day 3 he was unable to bowl. In his absence Virat Kohli led Team India with Rohit Sharma the full-time Test captain of India opting out of the match. Bumrah had previously captained Team India in the series opener in Perth and resumed his captaincy duties at the SCG.

Also read| IND vs AUS: Why is India wearing a pink-striped jersey on Day 3 of Sydney Test?