Australian wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey I couldn’t stop praising 19-year-old Sam Konstas after his electrifying Test debut against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. On Boxing Day, in front of a near capacity crowd, Konstas hit a thrilling 60 balls in just 65 balls, including two daring sixes off Jasprit Bumrah.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the fifth Test at the SCG, Carey admitted he was impressed by Konstas’ fearless approach.
“I was a spectator at the first session,” Carey said. “Sometimes I couldn’t see it, and sometimes I cheered.”
A bold debut that surprised everyone
Konstas received his first Test cap after Nathan McSweeney struggled in the first three games. The teenager brought an aggressive energy to the top order, a stark contrast to the methodical batting Australia had relied on it earlier in the series.
“Just the energy he brought — it was something different,” Carey said. “I probably didn’t expect such a big difference, but he played a style of cricket that was probably new in India too.”
Carey added that while Konstas’ debut success was stunning, it may not have reflected his long-term approach.
“I don’t think that’s his blueprint for every Test match. But it was great to see throwing some shots early and getting some momentum,” he said.
A new dynamic for the top order
Carey acknowledged the contributions of McSweeney and Usman Khawaja in difficult situations early in the series. However, he admitted that Konstas brought a new dimension.
“I thought Nathan and Usman did well in tough spots and were able to soak up balls when needed. “But Sam brought that extra touch: he scored when it mattered most,” Carey said.
With the fifth Test being played at the SCG, Konstas’ home ground, Carey hopes the young opener gets 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 there was a brief physical altercation and an exchange of words. Kohli was fined 20% of his match fee over the altercation but Carey played down the incident.
“Not that I’m aware of… I think I saw a photo of them shaking hands afterward,” Carey said. “It’s Test cricket. Sam didn’t take it to heart.”
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