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Konstas shines brightly on debut at the MCG

by UMMADI JAYA

In their Boxing Day test against India, Sam Konstas a debutant for the Australian team, filled a gap that the team needed in their plans. He approached the match with confidence and in time began reverses that flummixed the Indian fast bowlers. He sure engaged virtually every bowler with his unorthodox attitude and with aggression. Although Ravindra Jadeja ended his rampage scoring 60 from 65 deliveries, Australia were able to close the first session with excellent momentum going as they scored 112 runs and lost just 1 wicket.

In the game Konstas also spoke of plans involving Bumrah the world’s best bowler, these confidence didn’t wane him when Bumrah beat his bat four times at any instance. And even when “the young debutant” failed in two attempts to hit a couple of reverse scoops, he never looked flustered.

In the 7th over, it seemed like he transitioned into a different person or rather grabbed the opportunity which he never attempted previously, he went on to hit three reverse scoops which resulted in two fours and one six, it is said to be the first time Bumrah conceded a six in a test match after the 2021 Sydney test. In doing so, he was able to control the match that allowed him to take over the reigns for the innings. There are definitely other ways of attacking and they did not satisfy Konstas right from the start. So he started retreating a bit and started honing the offside shots against the Australian fast bowlers. He also hit any short ball towards mid wicket on the air without any thought.

Breif scores: Australia 142/1 (Sam Konstas 60, Usman Khawaja 54*; Ravindra Jadeja 1-20) vs India.

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