Australian opener prodigy Sam Konstas has been criticised for his approach to the final over of day one of the SCG Test after his fiery altercation with India captain Jasprit Bumrah.
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Konstas was involved in a heated back and forth with Bumrah and his Indian teammates, before Australia’s other opener Usman Khawaja was caught on the final ball of the day.
The wicket sparked mass celebrations from India with Konstas in their direct firing line after his combative approach to the opposition.
India were bowled out for 185 on day one giving Australia a nervous three overs to negotiate before stumps, but Khawaja’s wicket ensured India would have the last laugh on day one.
Australia will resume on 0-9 on day two with Konstas (7) and Marnus Labuschagne (0) at the crease.
There were suggestions Konstas’ fiery approach distracted Khawaja from playing out the day, while he tried to calm his younger teammate.
After receiving praise for his brave approach to his Test debut innings of 60, which included Virat Kohli shoulder bumping him as he took the Indian attack to all parts, Konstas has been accused of going over the line in Sydney.
Konstas is treading a fine line between confidence and bravery and going too far, which is firing up India in their bid to get one over on the young star and his Australian teammates.
Adam Gilchrist was one of a number of legends and pundits to comment on Konstas’ approach late on day one.
“They’re charging in from everywhere … All sorts of drama here,” Gilchrist said.
AUS v India – 5th Test, Day 1 Highlights | 14:46
“It was Bumrah who turned to Konstas. He learns a tough lesson in his second Test match.
“The celebration was somewhat unique. Normally it’s hands in the air but they all turned and fixed their eyes on one man.”
A chorus of greats and pundits took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their concerns over Konstas’ antics.
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