Australia's latest debutant Sam Konstas had a memorable appearance in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG against India. Konstas smashed a whirlwind fifty on his Test debut and gave Australia the upper hand in the early stages of the match.
However, the youngster was also involved in an ugly confrontation with Indian cricket star Virat Kohli during the match. Both players exchanged a few words between themselves before they were separated.
After his dismissal, Konstas spoke about his ugly fight with Kohli and appeared to defend the entire incident. The 19-year-old stated that such things can happen on the cricket field as they both wear their hearts on their sleeves.
Sam Constas breaks his silence on his clash with Virat Kohli
While speaking to 7 Cricket after the first session concluded, Sam Konstas spoke to host broadcaster Trent Copeland about his encounter with Virat Kohli. Konstas gave a mature response and revealed that emotions got through to both players in this situation.
“I think the emotions got through to both of us. I wasn't quite aware I was putting on my gloves. Then a little shoulder charge. But it happens, it's cricket,” said Konstas with a smile on his face.
It should be noted that Sam Constas considers Virat Kohli his favorite cricketer. The opener loves to play an aggressive brand of cricket and showed his instincts in his first Test innings only.
Sam Constas thanks Pat Cummins
Sam Constas also described it as a dream to make his debut at a packed MCG on Boxing Day. He thanked his captain Pat Cummins and the Australian team for making him feel at ease and giving him confidence on his debut.
“I think it was a bit of a blur, but it's a dream come true. Look at the turnout, the stadium is full. But yeah, the boys have been very welcoming, Pat Cummins, and I feel at home,” Konstas said.
“I think Cummins was telling me that just for being brave. He added: 'We had Christmas lunch yesterday, and we saw the kids enjoying it, and yeah, you can tell it's a really united family group, so yeah, very excited.'
Sam Konstas lights up the MCG on his debut
Sam Konstas replaced Nathan McSweeney, who had low returns in the first three Tests of the series. Despite making his debut in a packed stadium, Konstas was positive and made sure to put the pressure back on the Indian bowlers.
He was particularly brutal against the best spinner of the series, Jasprit Bumrah, which disrupted India's plans a bit. The youngster played some bold sweeps and reverse sweeps which were very unexpected for the Indian team.
The opener continued to play his shots while at the crease. He hit 60 off 65 balls to send Australia flying. Constas smashed 6 fours and two sixes while batting and was finally dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja.