4th Test: Sam Konstas Shines with 60 on Debut as Australia Posts 112/1 Against India
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Melbourne, Dec 26 (NationPress) The young talent Sam Konstas marked his debut in international cricket with an impressive 60 runs off just 65 deliveries, propelling Australia to a score of 112/1 in 25 overs against India at lunch on the opening day of the fourth Test at the MCG on Thursday.
In front of a crowd exceeding 90,000 spectators, Konstas faced fierce bowling from Jasprit Bumrah, being beaten four times in the first over and several times after. However, he remained undeterred, showcasing an exciting array of scoops, reverse-scoops, and powerful shots throughout his innings, which included four fours and two sixes.
Konstas put together a solid opening partnership of 89 runs with Usman Khawaja (38 not out), marking the highest opening stand for Australia in this series. His aggressive play against Bumrah allowed Khawaja to find his rhythm, making him the most fluid version of himself in this series.
Although Konstas was eventually dismissed lbw by a straight ball from Ravindra Jadeja, he received a well-deserved standing ovation from the crowd as Australia got off to a fantastic start, putting India on the back foot.
After opting to bat first, the debutant, Baggy Green cap number 468, found himself struggling against Bumrah initially, attempting to unsettle him with some ramp shots that didn’t quite work out. If anyone thought he was nervous, they were soon proven wrong by the brilliance of his batting.
In the seventh over, Konstas expertly scooped Bumrah for a boundary, followed by a reverse ramp for six and another four in a thrilling 14-run over, marking the first occasion since 2021 that a batter scored a maximum off the pacer in Test matches. His exhilarating performance compelled India to reposition their fielders.
Following a boundary off Siraj, Konstas had a brief exchange with Virat Kohli, but the intimidation tactic did not deter him; instead, he responded by striking Bumrah for two more fours and a six, reaching a commendable fifty.
After a beautiful four off Siraj, Konstas narrowly avoided an lbw appeal from Jadeja. However, Jadeja had the last laugh in his subsequent over, bowling around the wicket to trap Konstas plumb lbw.
Marnus Labuschagne looked at ease, scoring two boundaries off Jadeja and remaining unbeaten on 12 as a remarkable session concluded for Australia, showcasing the success of the selection committee, led by George Bailey, in choosing Konstas for this crucial Test match.
Brief Scores: Australia 112/1 in 25 overs (Sam Konstas 60, Usman Khawaja 38 not out; Ravindra Jadeja 1-20) against India.
