Sam Konstas Shines on Debut as Tensions Flare in Australia-India Fourth Test
The highly anticipated fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicked off at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), with Australia electing to bat first after winning the toss. By stumps on Day 1, the hosts had posted 311 runs for the loss of six wickets, with debutant opener Sam Konstas stealing the spotlight.
Konstas’ Explosive Debut Performance
Nineteen-year-old Sam Konstas made an impressive Test debut, showcasing an aggressive approach against India’s formidable bowling attack, particularly targeting Jasprit Bumrah.
- Score: 60 runs off 65 balls, featuring 4 sixes and 2 fours.
- Record Milestones:
- Fourth-youngest Australian to debut in Test cricket.
- Registered the third-fastest half-century by an Australian debutant.
- Became the first Australian opener to score a rapid half-century on debut.
Konstas attacked Bumrah confidently, scoring 34 runs off 33 deliveries, including 18 runs in a single over, marking Bumrah’s most expensive over in Test cricket. Remarkably, Konstas became the first batter to hit a six off Bumrah in Test cricket since January 2021, smashing two sixes during the innings.
Speaking during a drinks break, Konstas expressed his eagerness to face Bumrah again, stating he was “excited to take on the challenge.”
Read More: Pakistan-Born Australian Cricketer Joins PSL 10
Kohli-Konstas Altercation
The match also witnessed drama, with a heated exchange between Virat Kohli and Konstas after the 10th over. Kohli reportedly attempted to distract the young batter with sharp remarks and even shoulder-bumped him, leading to intervention by Usman Khawaja and match officials.
- ICC Action: Kohli was penalized with a 20% match fee deduction and awarded one demerit point for physical confrontation.
- Konstas’ Reaction: The debutant downplayed the incident, stating, “What happens on the field stays on the field.”
Praise for Konstas
Konstas’ debut performance drew widespread acclaim from fans and cricketing figures alike. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese lauded the young batter on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Sam Konstas, well done.”
As the Test progresses, all eyes remain on the dynamic Konstas, whose fearless debut has added an exciting layer to the ongoing Australia-India rivalry.
