Australia’s Sam Konstas is high on confidence ahead of his potential Boxing Day Test debut at the MCG against India. Konstas wants to keep things simple in terms of preparation ahead of the match and also spoke about the importance of getting a Test Cap.
Among all the Indian players in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Jasprit Bumrah arguably produced the highest no. problems for the hosts. He is currently the highest wicket taker in the series so far.
Jasprit Bumrah caused massive trouble for Nathan McSweeney, Australia’s opener for the first three Tests along with Usman Khawaja. The 31-year-old quick dismissed McSweeney four times in six innings. After a string of poor performances, McSweeney was dropped for Konstas for the final two Tests.
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Sam Konstas talks about the prospect of facing Jasprit Bumrah
During an interaction with the media, Sam Konstas seemed confident in his abilities and backed his abilities to do his best. Konstas also revealed that he will not be watching Jasprit Bumrah too much despite the threat he poses.
“I won’t be watching (him) too much. I’ve already seen him a lot. But I’m excited to challenge myself and face him. Usually, our analysts do a little feedback on each player. I might read it, maybe.” Konstas stated.
“I’m very confident. I’m just backing my skills, I’ve done all the hard work. Just another game I guess and I’m trying to keep it simple. As a kid you always dream of the moment and it’s very rare so it’s a great honor to get in” , he added.
Konstas was already in contention for selection ahead of this series. However, the selectors decided to give Nathan McSweeney a chance to open alongside Usman Khawaja. But McSweeney failed miserably and could score just 72 runs in three Tests at an average of 14.40.
“It was emotional, mum was crying” – Sam Konstas on being selected in the Test squad
Sam Konstas further spoke about the importance of making his Test debut. The youngster remembers the sacrifices his family has made over the years and is looking forward to making his red ball debut in front of them.
“It was all a bit unexpected, but it was very privileged to have the opportunity. I just had dinner with the family (to celebrate), quite cold. It was emotional, mum was crying. It all happened so quickly,” Konstas said.
“My mum and dad and my brothers, all their sacrifices, taking me to training, throwing me balls, experiencing the highs and lows of the journey. To give something back to them was very special. I can’t wait to have them in Melbourne for support,” the 19-year-old added.
Sam Constas first grade-numbers
Sam Konstas is not a very experienced first-class player and has played just 11 first-class matches so far. The right-hander has scored 718 runs at an average of 42.23 so far but has been outstanding in the last few games.
He looked in great form during the pink-ball warm-up against India in Canberra, where he smashed hundreds. The youngster has been on the selectors’ radar for some time and is likely to make his Test debut eventually at the historic MCG.
