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Konstas himselfand 19-year-old debutant for Australiadelivered a stunning performance on his Test debut during the first day of the Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on 26 December. The young batsman showed exceptional composure and skill, smashing 60 off 65 balls to become the second youngest Australian to record a Test half-century. His knock, studded with six boundaries and two towering sixes, gave Australia early momentum before falling victim Ravindra Jadeja guile in the 20th over, trapped LBW while trying to counter-attack.
The clash between Sam Konstas and Virat Kohli
Konstas’ debut was remarkable for his eye-catching batting and fielding. The drama took place in 10. overbeginning with a verbal exchange between Konstas and Mohammed Siraj. The Indian pacer, after defeating Konstas with a sharp shot, addressed a few fiery words to the young man. Konstas, showing no signs of intimidation, responded by smashing a boundary off the next ball, signaling his intent with both bat and words.
Things further escalated when Virat Kohliplaying in the middle of the field, he got involved. As Konstas walked to the non-striking end after the over, he and Kohli inadvertently brushed shoulders, leading to intense staredowns and an exchange of words. The situation heated up enough to require the intervention of a judge Michael Gough and Usman KhawajaKonstas’ partner at the opening. Khawaja calmly put his hand on Kohli’s shoulder as Gough spoke to both players, ensuring the game continued without interruption.
Here is the video:
—Sunil Gavaskar (@gavaskar_theman) December 26, 2024
Kohli and Konstas come together and make contact 👀#AUSWIN pic.twitter.com/adb09clEqd
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024
READ ALSO: AUS vs IND: Here’s why Shubman Gill is not playing the Boxing Day Test match against Australia
Flashes of brilliance against a world class attack
Despite the clash, Konstas kept his focus and played a fearless innings, especially against the Indian skipper Jasprit Bumrah. Using a mix of classic strokes and innovative stroke delivery, Konstas has troubled the Indian pacers on more than one occasion. His use of ramp shots and aggressive front foot movement reflects his adaptability and maturity, traits not often seen in a rookie.
Konstas’ stay at the crease came to an end when Jadejawith his familiar accuracy, he dropped it on the second ball of his spell. Although his innings ended prematurely, it was enough to lay a strong foundation for Australia, leaving the Indian bowlers looking for a breakthrough early in the match.
Usman Khawaja holds firm as Konstas falls before lunch
After the dismissal of debutant Konstas, who impressed with 60 off 65 balls, Australia continued their steady progress against India on the first day of the fourth Test in Melbourne. Khawaja anchored the innings with a calm half-century, reaching 50 off 101 balls, while Marnus Labuschagne joined him and added 12 runs off 40 balls by lunch. India managed to tighten their lines after the dismissal, with Akash Deep delivering economical spells and Jadeja batting at crucial time. at lunch, Australia were 112/1 in 25 overssetting a solid platform for a big first innings total.
