AUS vs IND: Australian youngster Konstas excited to face Bumrah and Co ahead of Boxing Day Test
AUS vs IND: Australian youngster Konstas excited to face Bumrah and Co ahead of Boxing Day Test
Australian opener Sam Konstas is excited to face the Indian bowlers in the Boxing Day Test, saying he already has a “few plans” for Jasprit Bumarh and Co if he makes the cut in the fourth game of the Border-Gavaskar series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Teenage sensation Konstas got a maiden call-up, replacing opener Nathan McSweeney for the final two Tests against India.
“I’ve got a few plans against those (Indian) bowlers. Feeling like I’m moving really nice, and hopefully, I get that opportunity,” Konstas told Fox Cricket.
“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,” he added.
If 19-year-old Konstas is selected in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test, he will become Australia’s youngest Test debutant since captain Pat Cummins, who was 18 years and 193 days old when he debuted against South Africa in Johannesburg in 2011.
“It will be a huge honour debuting. A dream come true. I think it’s a sellout already (at the MCG),” he said.
“I’m very excited (to take on India). I want to be challenged.”
Konstas was practising in the nets when Australia’s chairman of selectors, George Bailey, called him to give him the news of his inclusion for the final two Tests.
“I was so thrilled. Called my parents straight away… Mum was in tears, so I was telling her not to cry. Dad was super proud.
“It’s been an amazing journey. All the ups and downs – very grateful for their sacrifices. They’ve been a great support to me.” Konstas said McSweeney, who Konstas replaced, congratulated him after hearing the news of his inclusion. The former, however, admitted to feeling “devastated” after being dropped for the last two Tests, saying that he would work hard to reclaim his spot.
“Nathan McSweeney is a very good player in all three formats – he actually congratulated me this morning, so we’re very close mates. I wish him all the best.”
Konstas cannot recollect when he started playing cricket but said that his father had played a huge role in his success in the sport.
“I think from memory (I started playing) maybe four or five years old. Dad would always train me with my older brother Billy and Johnny, my twin.
“He’s retired now, my dad. I think I’ve hurt his shoulder!” said Konstas.
