Shane Watson Commends Sam Konstas' Test Entry and Supports Kohli's Champions Trophy Comeback
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New Delhi, Jan 2 (NationPress) Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has showered accolades on Sam Konstas for his sensational debut in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, while also expressing his support for renowned Indian cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as they prepare for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
The 19-year-old Konstas made headlines with his remarkable performance during the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). He scored a brisk 60 runs off just 65 balls on the first day, exhibiting unconventional shots, including scoops against India's premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
His fiery spirit was evident not just with the bat; he also engaged in a fiery exchange with Kohli, resulting in a fine for Kohli due to a shoulder charge.
Watson, who has been mentoring Konstas, acknowledged that the young player's bold approach and vibrant personality surprised him. “Sam is typically quiet and introspective, a deep thinker. However, what we witnessed on the field was a completely different facet of him. He is a born performer who excels on grand stages. He displayed remarkable confidence and wasn't intimidated by the moment,” Watson stated during the ICC Champions Trophy Tour event.
Konstas' boundary celebrations and banter also riled Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, further establishing him as a challenger.
The Australian team is now gearing up for Konstas' first game at his home ground, the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), where he will become the youngest Australian to play a Test match at this venue. He will also face two Tests in Sri Lanka under entirely different conditions.
“The second innings at Melbourne indicated that teams are adapting to Sam’s style. India altered their field placements, and Bumrah got him out with an inducker,” Watson observed. “This will be a crucial moment for Sam’s growth - how he adjusts to the best bowlers globally. He possesses the skills and technical proficiency to adapt swiftly.”
As the cricketing community readies itself for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Watson shifted his focus to India’s key players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who have been under scrutiny for their recent performances in the current Test series.
Watson dismissed worries regarding their Test performances affecting their Champions Trophy contributions, emphasizing their impressive ODI records.
“I don’t believe their current struggles will impact Rohit Sharma and Virat’s performances in one-day cricket. The conditions in Dubai will be different, and one-day cricket tends to liberate both of them,” Watson explained.
“Kohli is a true master of one-day cricket... Yes, he's exceptional across all formats, but especially in ODIs. His outstanding statistics over time, averaging around 57 with a strike rate of 93, are astounding. It’s remarkable to consider the mastery he has over his innings... We will witness that again in the Champions Trophy. Rohit, as demonstrated during the one-day World Cup (2023), when at his peak, was aggressive and took on the game,” Watson added.
The Champions Trophy has already ignited conversations due to its unique ‘hybrid’ hosting format. Although Pakistan is the official host, India’s matches will be held at a neutral venue in Dubai because of political tensions. Watson expressed disappointment over this situation but stressed the tournament's importance.
“It’s unfortunate that India isn’t visiting Pakistan. India-Pakistan encounters are legendary, especially in ICC tournaments. Nonetheless, the Champions Trophy is essential for maintaining the vitality of ODI cricket amid the prevalence of Tests and T20 leagues,” Watson remarked.
He further underscored the tournament's significance in connecting World Cups and ensuring the relevance of the 50-over format in the cricketing schedule.
