Australian wicket-keeper Alex Carey I couldn't stop singing the praises of 19-year-old Sam Konstas after his debut in the thrilling Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Facing an almost packed crowd on Boxing Day, Konstas smashed a sensational 60 off just 65 balls, including two audacious balls from Jasprit Bumrah.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the fifth Test at the SCG, Carey admitted he was in awe of Konstas' fearless approach.
“I was a spectator at the first session,” Carey said. “Sometimes, I couldn't watch it, and sometimes, I was cheering.”
A bold start that surprised everyone
Konstas earned his first Test cap after Nathan McSweeney struggled in the first three matches. The teenager brought aggressive energy to the highest level, a stark contrast to the methodical beatings Australia It was relied upon earlier in the series.
“Just the energy he brought was something different,” Carey said. “Maybe he wasn't expecting so much of a difference, but he played a style of cricket that was probably new to India as well.”
Carey added that although Konstas's first hit was impressive, it may not represent his style in the long term.
“I don't think that's his plan in every Test match. But to throw some punches early and get the momentum going, it was great to see.”
A new dynamic for the top order
Curry acknowledged the contributions of McSweeney and Usman Khawaja in tough situations earlier in the series. However, he admitted that Konstas brought a new dimension.
“I thought Nathan and Usman were doing well in the tough spots, soaking up balls when needed. But Sam brought that little extra – he scored when it mattered,” Curry said.
With the fifth Test taking place at the SCG, Constance's home ground, Carey will hope the young opener will get another chance to shine in front of a familiar crowd.
Kohli Konstas incident: No hard feelings
The match also saw a heated moment between Konstas and Virat Kohli On the first day, which resulted in a brief physical clash and an exchange of words. Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee for the fracas, but Carey played down the incident.
“Not that I know of…I think I saw a picture of them shaking hands afterward,” Curry said. “It's Test cricket. Sam didn't take it seriously.
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