BGT: Sam Konstas Acknowledges Watching Bumrah, Focuses on the Present Moment
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Melbourne, Dec 23 (NationPress) Uncapped Australian opener Sam Konstas stated that he has devised a plan to face India’s fast-bowling ace Jasprit Bumrah if he is selected for the upcoming Boxing Day Test commencing this Thursday.
However, Konstas emphasized the importance of being present in the moment – experiencing being at the MCG with the Australian Test squad. The 19-year-old was called up to the Australian Test team for the last two matches against India, taking the place of Nathan McSweeney.
There are expectations for Konstas to be a more aggressive opening partner alongside veteran Usman Khawaja. “I do have a plan, but I’m not going to disclose it; I will focus on applying pressure back onto the bowlers. They are all exceptional bowlers,” he noted.
“Clearly, they are among the best in the world, but I am eager for the challenge, and I hope to experience it this week. I have observed (Bumrah) quite a lot, but I’m just concentrating on being in the moment. I hope I get the chance on Boxing Day,” Konstas shared with reporters on Monday.
During his first training session with the Australian team, Konstas expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received from captain Pat Cummins and star batter Steve Smith in the locker room. “For me, this is an incredible opportunity at my age. Pat Cummins and the team have embraced me, making it feel like a family. It’s been fantastic, a dream come true, and I hope to represent my country,” he added.
“It’s a tremendous honor; I’ve always dreamed of this since childhood. I’m trying to keep things straightforward, get my preparation right, and see how it unfolds. Everything has happened so quickly… I wasn’t too stressed. I believe I’m a fairly relaxed individual, and I’m just aiming to live in the moment.”
He also shared insights from his mentor, former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson, who will be arriving in Melbourne with Konstas' family members on Thursday. “Just treat it like any other day, trust myself, and be fearless. I have great admiration for Shane Watson. I like to take the initiative in the game and apply pressure on the bowlers,” he explained.
“He’s a legend of the sport, and I hope to embody that this week during my debut. I don’t engage much on social media, but I take it as a compliment. It’s quite simple – just back myself and focus on ‘see ball, hit ball’,” he concluded.
