Sam Konstas, the Australian debutant, has admitted to provoking Jasprit Bumrah during a tense encounter on Day 1 of the fifth Test in Sydney. The exchange, which occurred late in the final session, culminated in Bumrah dismissing Usman Khawaja with a brilliant delivery, leaving the Australian camp shaken.
The drama unfolded with 15 minutes remaining in the day’s play as openers Khawaja and Konstas faced relentless pressure from Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj on a seaming SCG pitch.
After Khawaja momentarily stepped away to slow the pace, Konstas, stationed at the non-striker’s end, engaged in a verbal spat with Bumrah.
The heated moment required umpire intervention, but Bumrah had the final say, forcing an edge from Khawaja that sent the Indian team into jubilation.
Bumrah’s fiery celebration included a glance towards Konstas, but the pacer chose not to escalate the situation further. Reflecting on the incident, Konstas acknowledged his role in the build-up.
“I didn’t get too fazed. Unfortunately, Uzi got out. He was trying to buy some time. It was probably my fault, but it happens. It’s cricket. Credit to Bumrah for the wicket, but overall, it was a great team performance,” he said.
The debutant’s aggressive demeanour has been a recurring theme throughout the series. Konstas had earlier riled up Bumrah with audacious strokes, including a reverse ramp for four in Melbourne, and drew the ire of Virat Kohli, whose shoulder charge in a prior Test resulted in a fine for the former Indian skipper.
Speaking about his maiden Test series, the teenager struck a reflective tone. “No, I was very calm. I was talking to my parents and teammates. Uzi (Khawaja) mentioned my adrenaline was pumped when batting, but I didn’t feel it. Still, it was a great debut, and I’m happy with two wins,” he said.
While Konstas’ debut has been eventful, his selection for Australia’s forthcoming two-match series in Sri Lanka remains uncertain. “Yeah, I’m not too sure if I’m selected yet. I think we’ll find out in the next few days, but obviously, adapting to different conditions, maybe we’ll find a new Sam. I think so, but time will tell,” he remarked.
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