The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, renowned for its fierce rivalry and intense on-field moments, witnessed yet another dramatic incident on Day 1 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The clash, involving Indian superstar Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas, added fuel to the fiery competition that has long been a hallmark of the series.
Sam Konstas responds
The drama unfolded after the end of the 10th over when tensions between the players boiled over. While walking past each other, Kohli appeared to brush shoulders with the young Australian opener, Konstas. The physical contact seemed to provoke Konstas, who did not hesitate to voice his displeasure. What followed was an exchange of sharp words between the two cricketers, prompting the on-field umpire to intervene and restore order.
Speaking about the incident during a post-dismissal interview, Konstas reflected on the incident, attributing it to heightened emotions on both sides. He explained that he was focused on adjusting his gloves and didn’t fully register the moment, which led to a minor shoulder charge. He downplayed the incident, noting such things are part of cricket.
“I think emotions got over both of us. I did not quite realize; I was doing my gloves, and then there was a little shoulder charge. But it happens, it’s cricket,” said Konstas.
The man of the moment 👊
Sam Konstas chats with @copes9 about his first Test innings…
And everything else that happened during it as well #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/v7hhwMWgtB
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 26, 2024
Also WATCH: Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas exchanged heated words after shoulder bump on Day 1 of the Melbourne Test | AUS vs IND
A memorable debut for Sam Konstas
Despite the confrontation, the 19-year-old made a remarkable impression on his Test debut. As the youngest Australian opener and the fourth youngest to debut for Australia in Test cricket, Konstas showcased his talent with a stellar innings. He scored a brisk 60 off 65 balls, featuring six fours and two towering sixes, earning a standing ovation from the MCG crowd.
His dismissal came in the 20th over, bowled by Indian spinner Ravindra Jadeja. A fuller delivery from Jadeja skidded across, beating Konstas’ inside edge and trapping him plumb in front of the stumps. Although he first considered to take a review, but ultimately decided against it, walking off to receive an applause of fans.
Jadeja, who has been a linchpin for India in recent years, ended Konstas’ entertaining knock. The dismissal marked a pivotal moment as the young debutant had set a strong foundation for Australia on the first morning of the Boxing Day Test.
Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma issues warning to Marnus Labuschagne for running on pitch on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test
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