Boxing Day ended with the first day of the Test match Australia Scored 311 runs for the loss of 6 wickets. Australia’s batting was star-studded with well-knit shots from the opening Osman Khoja and #3 Marnus Labuschagne. However, it was a storming knock of 60 runs by the debutant. Constas himself was the highlight of the Australian innings on the opening day.
Konstas quickly became a crowd favorite with his unique shooting skills Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). It wasn’t just his batting that was the talk of the fans and analysts, but his tussle with the Indian batting wizard. Virat Kohli It also became a major talking point on Boxing Day.
Sam Konstas shines against India at the MCG
The 19-year-old started his innings patiently against India, but soon, he moved to the all-too-familiar batting screen. The debutant is known in the Australian circuit for his offside hitting and quick scoring ability. The youngster did not disappoint the MCG crowd and started hitting the ground running.
With Konstas hitting the pacers flawlessly, the Indian skipper decided to test the youngster with spin. Ravindra Jadeja 19th time bole was called. Constas failed to read Jadeja’s second delivery and the Indian all-rounder gave away his wicket on a wicket appeal before his feet. Team India can finally breathe a little sigh of relief as Jadeja is making a much-needed breakthrough.
Also read: Australia ft. Top 3 fastest fifties for Sam Konstas on Test debut
A heated exchange between Kontas and Virat Kohli
By the time Constas left the ground, the tone of the Boxing Day Test had already been set by the debutant, not only with the bat, but also with a thrilling encounter with Kohli. As the opening pair swapped sides, Kohli, who was nearing the strikers’ end, went shoulder-to-shoulder with the youngster. The clash provoked Konstas and he responded with some words that many felt were a deliberate attempt by Kohli to get under Konstas’ skin. The former Indian captain hit back at Konstas with his own words before the on-field umpires and Australian striker Khwaja intervened to stop the two players. Konstas was batting at the age of 27 at the time of the clash with Kohli.
The encounter between the Australian player and the star Indian batter quickly went viral on the internet with reactions from cricket legends and fans alike.
Meanwhile, former Australian cricketer Ricky PontingAppearing angry at Kohli’s action, he said: “Virat took a full step to his (Constas’) right and that instigated the confrontation. There is no doubt in my mind.” Ponting’s analysis further inflamed the fans of the two sides, with some supporting Kohli while others were outraged by his actions.
Why not? #It happens change his way???🤔
It seems clear that it can be avoided,
but he deliberately came towards Virat Kohli.
“Now the whole world mocks him needlessly!!”#INDvsAUS#ViratKohli #zelena #SquidGame2 pic.twitter.com/h8mKJEz74a— HARSH VARDHAN (@HARSHUPAL590618) December 26, 2024
Virat Kohli bro welcome Sam Constas is a 19 year old debutant. Show her some class and respect.
This is unnecessary. Kohli brings shame to this beautiful game.😥
36 year old man #ViratKohli It’s a shame to rule a 19-year-old boy on his Test debut #AUSWIN#BoxingDayTestpic.twitter.com/v4CfweTSsm
— Sohail Imran (@sohailimrangeo) December 26, 2024
Ricky Ponting & Co were doing it in the early 2000s. Now Virat Kohli has taken the responsibility 🧐#INDvAUSpic.twitter.com/QGTK0dQ2nk
— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) December 26, 2024
Virat Kohli with Aussie Mentality💉✨
Aussie has been acting like this for 2-3 decades and bringing it back 🥶#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/1MgqquGjtO— Mufaddal Parody (@mufaddal_voira) December 26, 2024
Virat Kohli of old is back 💥💥#INDvsAUS #ViratKohli #BGT2025 pic.twitter.com/YgaYNd1mge
— Hanuman Lal Nehra (@HanumanLalNehra) December 26, 2024
Virat Kohli should be banned from Cricket not only for his rude behavior but also for physical assault. BCC will not take any action for corruption and funds from BCCI.
But you have to be competitive players @imnaveenulhaq In front of Kohli! https://t.co/q9wgZVvt4X
— Zainab Qureshi (@zainab2292) December 26, 2024
To those who say Virat Kohli shouldn’t be talking to Sam Constas because he’s still 19. Remember, it was the Australian team that trolled him on his debut. This is Peak Test cricket, grow up.#INDvsAUS #HONESTVsIN #BoxingDayTest pic.twitter.com/oDpMmMdsqA
— Akshat (@AkshatOM10) December 26, 2024
