Jonny Bairstow and Virat Kohli got into a heated argument on the third day of the rescheduled fifth Test between England and India at Edgbaston in Birmingham.
The former India captain seemed unhappy with Bairstow after Bairstow said something to Kohli. Though Bairstow tried to calm things down, Kohli did not hold back and gave him peace of mind.
Kohli tells Bairstow to stop talking and focus on batting. Even the two on-field umpires, Alain Dar and Richard Kettleborough, were forced to intervene and calm things down between the two players.
Talking about it, Bairstow insisted that there was “literally nothing” between him and Kohli.
“Refused to invite him over for dinner,” Bairstow joked.
“Like I mentioned earlier, there was literally nothing. We’ve been lucky enough to play against each other for ten years. So, I’m pretty sure we’ll be able to have dinner. Don’t worry about it. Do it.”
Bairstow, who was struggling till the heated exchange, retaliated with his batting and registered a century off just 119 balls. Bairstow fell soon after his century as Kohli got him caught by Mohammed Shami.
The England batsman, however, admitted that it is always difficult to play against India.
“We’re very lucky to be playing there because that’s why we play the game, right? Two very competitive guys on the field doing what they love. And that’s why we play the game. You have 11 on each side. People who are very passionate to do so much good for their country.
“And yes, look, it’s passion, it’s what you play for… So, I hope it clears it up, but, look, it was great out there and against a great team in India.” Play is always there to be tough. And like I said, you have to absorb those tough times and try and change the pace and wrestle on the others.”
England were bundled out for 284, with Mohammad Siraj taking four wickets while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami took three and two wickets respectively.
India are currently holding a 257-run lead after ending Day 3 at 125 for the loss of three wickets, including the cheap dismissal of Kohli at stumps for 20.