Sam Konstas' unexpected performance against India in the Boxing Day Test defied expectations and shook the foundations of red ball cricket. Facing the world's best bowler, Bumrah, Konstas unleashed a barrage of shots, redefining the dynamic of the match and putting Australia on the front foot.
The first attempt by Sam Konstas at a ramp shot did not go well. In the windy heat of the MCG on Boxing Day, a swing and a miss was met with a wry grin from Jasprit Bumrah. At the non-striker’s end, Usman Khawaja – 38 a week ago – cracked a smile.
But sometimes old people don’t know what they’re talking about. What followed was one of the most searing chapters in Australian sporting history. All the pressures of the cricketing world were compressed onto the light green square in the middle of this storied ground. Surrounded by around 90,000 fans, and tens of millions on television, there was no escape. Then: bang, the ensuing explosion a mushroom cloud, re-writing the recipe of red ball cricket.
And all that after the best bowler in the world started in imperious form. Once, twice, three times and four, Bumrah beat the outside edge of Australia’s rookie opener. And that was just the first over.At that stage, the Bharat Army’s flags were waving wildly, their three bays – plus the tens of thousands of Indian fans that filled the ground – enlivening the atmosphere of one of cricket’s great occasions. But as the temperature rose, their enthusiasm was tempered.
Konstas may have looked like a boy, but when he took a blow to the groin from Siraj – clocked at 142km/h – there was conclusive proof he was a man. Australians had mostly heard the reports of his feats at state level, caught a grab or two on the news in the lead-up, but this was the first real moment to become acquainted.
Cricket Australia India Test Match Sam Konstas
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Sam Konstas' Impressive Performance in Prime Minister’s XI Match Signals Potential Test DebutYoung NSW cricketer Sam Konstas hits a century in the Prime Minister’s XI match against India, showing prodigious talent and solid batting technique. With his performance, the possibility of a Test debut appears more likely, drawing comparisons to Shane Watson and gaining interest from selectors and former coach Matthew Mott.
Read more »
Teenage Sensation Konstas Blasts Half-Century on Big Bash DebutSam Konstas shines in Sydney Thunder's thrilling win over Adelaide Strikers.
Read more »
Teenager Konstas Shatters Records in Big Bash DebutSam Konstas, a teenager, made a remarkable debut in the Big Bash League, smashing a half-century in just 20 balls and becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat. His explosive innings led the Sydney Thunder to a two-wicket victory over the Adelaide Strikers.
Read more »
Teen Sensation Konstas Blasts Half-Century on BBL DebutSam Konstas, a teenage sensation, sets the BBL alight with a blistering half-century on debut for Sydney Thunder.
Read more »
Konstas Storms BBL Debut with Record-Breaking 50Sam Konstas, 19, became the youngest player to score a BBL half-century on debut, smashing 56 off 27 balls for the Sydney Thunder. His impressive innings included a range of innovative shots and showcased his talent for T20 cricket.
Read more »
Teenage Sensation Sam Konstas Poised for Australian Test Debut19-year-old Sam Konstas is drawing comparisons to elite Australian Test players like Michael Clarke, David Warner, and Steve Smith for his confidence and talent. After impressive performances in the Big Bash League, Konstas could be called up for the Boxing Day Test against India, potentially replacing struggling batsman Nathan McSweeney.
Read more »