When Australia plays India in the Boxing Day Test starting on December 26, 19-year-old Sam Konstas might make his debut. After a run of poor performances in the first three Test matches, rookie opener Nathan McSweeney was discarded, and Konstas was called up to the squad for the final two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With preparations already in place to face players like Jasprit Bumrah and company, Konstas is now eager to take on the task of confronting India's formidable bowling attack.
Sam Konstas' subtle warning
"I’ve got a few plans against those (Indian) bowlers. Feeling like I’m moving really nice and hopefully I get that opportunity. I’m just going to react to the ball and show a bit of intent and put a bit of pressure back on the bowlers," Konstas told Fox Cricket.
Konstas can create history
Konstas would be Australia's youngest Test debutant since Pat Cummins, who made his debut against South Africa in 2011 at the age of just 18 years and 193 days if he is chosen for the starting lineup. The teenager is excited about the chance to make their debut at the MCG, in front of an enthusiastic and sold-out audience.
"It will be a huge honour debuting. A dream come true. I think it’s a sellout already (at the MCG). I’m very excited (to take on India). I want to be challenged," Konstas said.
Konstas gets out on duck in first innings after call-up
After being called up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India, Australia's Sam Konstas had a disappointing performance against the Sydney Sixers in the BBL, falling for a three-ball duck. Before his much-awaited and potential Test debut on Boxing Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), this was Konstas' last Big Bash League innings.
In his first game since joining Australia's Test team, the 19-year-old sensation tried to cut a short delivery from Akeal Hosein but instead sliced it onto his stumps. Five days prior to his dismissal, he had made a stunning debut against the Adelaide Strikers, smashing the fastest half-century in Sydney Thunder history.
