NEW DELIH: When it’s India vs Australia, the tension is always high, with exchanges of words and heated moments being part of the rivalry. During the fourth Test at the MCG, sparks flew between debutant Sam Konstas and Indian star Virat Kohli following a minor physical contact.
In the 10th over of Australia’s innings, as Kohli walked past Konstas, their shoulders brushed lightly, leaving the young Australian visibly irritated. Konstas immediately confronted Kohli, prompting the umpire to step in and calm things down.
Amidst the drama, Konstas impressed with the bat, scoring his maiden Test fifty off just 52 balls, showcasing his promise on the big stage.
On Thursday, Konstas etched his name in the history books by making his international debut for Australia. At 19 years and 85 days, he became the fourth-youngest Test debutant for Australia, receiving his baggy green cap from former captain Mark Taylor.
Ian Craig remains the youngest Australian Test debutant, playing his first game in 1953 at 17 years and 239 days. Current skipper Pat Cummins follows, debuting at 18 years and 193 days in 2011. Tom Garrett ranks third, and Clem Hill occupies fifth place on the list.
Konstas gained attention with a century for the Prime Minister’s XI against the touring Indians after the Perth Test. His domestic record includes 718 runs in 11 first-class matches at an average of 42.2, featuring two centuries and three half-centuries.
He also played a pivotal role in Australia’s ICC U19 World Cup 2024 triumph, scoring 191 runs in seven innings at an average of 27.28, including a century. His performance in the two-match series between Australia A and India A included 92 runs in four innings, highlighted by a match-winning 73*. In a pink-ball warm-up game against India, he stamped his authority with a classy 107 off 97 balls against a formidable Indian attack.
Konstas has begun his Test career on a high, proving that the faith of the selectors was well-placed.
