WATCH: Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas exchanged heated words after shoulder bump on Day 1 of the Melbourne Test

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Sam Konstas, a 19-year-old debutant for Australia, delivered a captivating performance on his Test debut during the Day 1 of Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on December 26. The young batter showcased exceptional composure and skill, smashing a brisk 60 off 65 balls to become the second-youngest Australian to record a Test half-century. His knock, laced with six boundaries and two towering sixes, provided Australia with early momentum before he fell victim to Ravindra Jadeja’s guile in the 20th over, trapped LBW while attempting to counterattack.

Clash between Sam Konstas and Virat Kohli

Konstas’ debut was remarkable for his batting and an on-field confrontation that captured the spotlight. The drama unfolded in the 10th over, beginning with a verbal exchange between Konstas and Mohammed Siraj. The Indian pacer, after beating Konstas with a sharp delivery, directed a few fiery words at the youngster. Konstas, showing no signs of intimidation, responded by smashing a boundary off the next ball, signaling his intent with both his bat and words.

Matters escalated further when Virat Kohli, fielding at mid-off, became involved. As Konstas walked to the non-striker’s end after the over, he and Kohli inadvertently brushed shoulders, sparking an intense stare-down and an exchange of words. The situation grew heated enough to require intervention from umpire Michael Gough and Usman Khawaja, Konstas’ opening partner. Khawaja calmly placed his arm on Kohli’s shoulder while Gough spoke to both players, ensuring the match resumed without disruption.

Here’s the video:

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Flashes of brilliance against a world-class attack

Despite the confrontation, Konstas maintained his focus and played a fearless innings, particularly against India’s spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Employing a mix of classic strokes and innovative shot-making, Konstas repeatedly unsettled the Indian pacers. His use of ramp shots and aggressive front-foot drives reflected his adaptability and maturity, traits not often seen in a debutant.

Konstas’ stay at the crease came to an end when Jadeja, with his trademark accuracy, dismissed him on the second ball of his spell. Although his innings ended prematurely, it was enough to lay a strong foundation for Australia, leaving the Indian bowlers searching for breakthroughs early in the match.

Usman Khawaja holds firm as Konstas falls before lunch

After the dismissal of debutant Konstas, who impressed with a brisk 60 off 65 balls, Australia continued their steady progress against India on Day 1 of the fourth Test in Melbourne. Khawaja anchored the innings with a composed half-century, reaching 50 off 101 balls, while Marnus Labuschagne joined him and added 12 runs off 40 balls by lunch. India managed to tighten their lines post-dismissal, with Akash Deep delivering economical spells and Jadeja striking at a crucial moment. At lunch, Australia stood at 112/1 in 25 overs, setting a solid platform for a big first-innings total.

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