NEW DELHI: Australia’s rookie opener Sam Konstas has devised a plan to tackle the Indian bowlers, particularly pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, as he gears up for a likely Test debut in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.
The 19-year-old was drafted into the Australian squad as a replacement for Nathan McSweeney, with the selectors opting for a more aggressive partner for Usman Khawaja at the top of the order.
Konstas has had a rapid ascent in his cricketing career, having been part of Australia’s title-winning team in the ICC U19 World Cup, where they defeated India. He made his first-class debut in November 2023 and has already made an impression in domestic cricket.
In his Big Bash League (BBL) debut, Konstas smashed a blistering 56 off 27 balls for the Sydney Thunder. He followed it up with a stellar knock of 107 off 97 balls against India in a warm-up match ahead of the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.
With the MCG Test approaching, Konstas spoke about his preparations, including studying Bumrah’s bowling videos and gaining insights from India’s star batter KL Rahul.
“Not really. I’ve watched them (Bumrah bowling videos) quite a bit but just trying to be in the moment and yeah, hopefully I get the opportunity on Boxing Day. They’re all very good bowlers. Obviously they’re the best in the world but looking forward to the challenge and hopefully I’ll get to experience that this week,” Konstas told reporters at the MCG.
“I had a little chat with KL Rahul (during the tour match), just talking about how he goes about it, but other than that, it’s pretty simple,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, Konstas credited his experiences with India A and the mentorship he’s received within the Australian setup.
“Learned a lot, obviously challenging myself with the Indian A team and learning from great mentors in the Aussie A stuff. Hopefully, I get the opportunity. Just trying to put my best foot forward and score runs, but other than that, just grateful for all the opportunities I have. And I have great mentors in Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, so they’ve welcomed me with open arms,” he added.
Konstas, who smashed 14 fours and a six in his brilliant knock against India in the warm-up match, where he was named Man of the Match, draws inspiration from former Australia allrounder Shane Watson.
“I admire Shane Watson a lot. I like to take the game on and put pressure on the bowlers. He’s a legend of the game and hopefully, I can do that this week. For me, it is an amazing opportunity at my age. Pat Cummins and the group have welcomed me in, so I feel like family. It’s been awesome, a dream come true, and hopefully, I get to represent my country,” he said.
